Homecoming, the one time of year that students tend to show the most school spirit! A day that is filled with crazy activities and parties and good old college fun. A tradition that’s been around and celebrated across many campuses long before my time and even my parents. As a senior I felt it was a MUST to participate in most of this past week’s homecoming events at my school. Honestly, how could I graduate without going to Stony Brook’s Annual Showcase? An event that dozens of students go to watch talented student groups on campus perform their heart out. How could I graduate without going to my last college tailgate? A free day party filled with friends, music, and fun. There’s just things that one must do before they graduate and Homecoming is definitely one of them. I’m a proud Seawolf and kind of a sad one as my senior year here is slowly coming to an end. Sure as an alumna, I could always come back but is it really the same? Here are five things I’ll miss about Homecoming after I graduate.
1. Looking Comfy Cute
Homecoming is that time of year where you pick out your best school gear and show it off. Red bandannas, crewnecks, scarfs, hats, and everything in between. Homecoming is the time to really embrace the fall weather and, of course, your school colors. I’m going to miss picking out my homecoming outfit and taking a ton of pictures.
2. Wolfie
Anyone who know’s me knows that I’m obsessed with our school’s mascot, Wolfie. How could you not love him? He’s so cute. He’s great at hyping up the crowd and never disappoints. He comes out to other events besides homecoming but Homecoming wouldn’t be the same if I weren’t able to take pictures with my favorite mascot.
3. Tailgating
Before I transferred to Stony Brook, my old school didn’t have homecoming or tailgating and I always wondered what it was like. I finally got to experience my first tailgating three years ago; food, music, games, and so much more! Tailgating is something like a day party with friends and other students like you. People even hop around from other colleges to experience different schools tailgates. I’ve seen friends from my old school and even my high school at tailgate and it’s always a great time
4. Watching the Game
I’ve been to other football games before, not just Homecoming, and the turnout is not as big. During Homecoming, everyone comes out to the game even if it’s just for 10 minutes. The stadium is usually packed and you can feel the energy radiating from the student section with the help of our marching band. I’ve learned and mastered all the chants and get pretty invested. Even if I’m not too familiar with the game too much I love going to support and yell at the top of my lungs.
5. My Friends
Participating in any of the following Homecoming events listed above and more would not be the same if I didn’t have my friends to come with me. Sure you could go alone and meet new people and just mingle but having people you’ve been going to Homecoming with for the past few years makes it feel like home. I’m going to miss getting ready with my friends and walking over to the game.
If you didn’t make it out to this semester’s Homecoming, make the the time to go next year or to other schools. I love Homecoming; the energy and memories are sure to stay with me for a lifetime.