Things you probably already miss about Ohio State

I’ve been home about 24 hours now, and i’m already finding myself missing Ohio State. Though it was tough first year, there is something special about OSU and Columbus.

I can’t help but miss a few things about one of my favorite places.

Mirror Lake

Mirror Lake in Late August

This lake is more than just that, it’s a favorite spot of mine on campus. From its peaceful fountain to its prime location on West campus (closer to my dorm) Mirror Lake was on of my favorite spots to sit and read, or enjoy my ice cream from the creamery. The lights that went up as first semester were ending before Christmas also helped bring in the holiday spirit, making Ohio State seem more like home. Oh, and of course this was the prime spot to see the local celebrity on campus, Afroduck.

The late Afroduck

The 11th floor of Thompson Library

To an outsider, another floor on a library seems like no big deal. To an OSU student, this floor provides one of the best study areas (it’s totally silent) along with one of the best views of downtown Columbus out there. The 11th floor looks east, and allows you to see the oval like you never had before. The 11th floor was a haven during finals, and the view helped break up the long hours of staring at my textbook.

The view from the 11th floor

The Olentangy trail

As a runner, this was my favorite part of Columbus. The trail runs over 20 miles total, and branches off into more than on trail when it hits the Scoito River. Running it on Saturday afternoon while I trained for my half-marathon became my favorite ritual. Though the miles got longer, I got a sick view of the city every time I went out on it. It never failed to provide a place to put my shoes to the pavement and a friendly wave from fellow runners.

Downtown Columbus as seen on the Olentangy Trail

The Shoe

Living on West Campus, I had to walk past the Shoe to get anywhere. But i’m not complaining. Many a memory were made in that stadium this fall, from my first game to the soul-crushing defeat by Michigan State, every time walked past the shoe I was reminded of the true meaning of what it means to be a Buckeye. In the words of our fight song, “we will fight till the end for OHIO.” No matter what I was doing or where I was going, I kept that motto in mind, and the Shoe reminded me that being a Buckeye means being undefeated in everything I do, not just in being a fan of the football team.

The Shoe

The chimes of Orton Hall

The chimes are more than just a way to tell time, they are a tradition. On late nights walking back from the library in the union, I would hear the opening notes of our Alma matter. Opening note that were played by the chimes at Orton. Opening notes that reminded me why I was here. Out in the cold, and the dark, walking home from cramming and filled with sheer exhaustion. That the Alma matter I was hearing then will seem so much more special when I sing it for the last time at graduation. The chimes became a part of my daily routine, and I looked forward to them everyday. The seasons may pass and the years will roll, but my love for Carmen Ohio will only grow with every note the chimes play.

Orton hall this past fall

Summer break may be expecting and fun, but I cannot wait to get back to Columbus and Ohio State. Even in summers heat, my heart remains with the Scarlet and Grey.