Let’s be real, when asked why you chose Carthage College, the first thing you tell people is because of the lake view. Sure, Carthage offers small classes and great professors, but Lake Michigan is what sells. Right now in the first month of school, lake life is great! Come October, though, we all might start re-evaluating how much we love Lake Michigan. So, to help you assess whether or not you’re moving to Florida, here are some pros and cons about living on the lake.
Pro: Sunrises and Sunsets
Even if you’re not a morning person, catching a sunrise at least once out of your time here is a must! If you’re lucky enough to live in a dorm with a view of the lake, it’s even better. I know I get lost staring at the waves and boats from my window. Although sunsets happen opposite the lake, the colors of the sky still make the view absolutely gorgeous.
Con: Winter
Once mid-October rolls around, the weather drops. This is especially true for us because the lake makes it feel at least 10 degrees colder than whatever your weather app says. Because of this, walking to class seems like a scene out of “Game of Thrones.”
Pro: Beach Days
The first and, if we’re lucky, the last month of school can get hot. The lake is super convenient if your not-so-air-conditioned dorm is just unbearable. If you want to go to a beach with sand, you can either walk or take a 2-minute drive just down the road.
Con: The Wind
Nothing says “Good Morning” more than having the wind knock you over! OK, slight exaggeration, but it sure feels like it sometimes. It’s already cold, so to add the wind just seems unfair. This is where your layers upon layers come in handy – because nothing is worse than dealing with wind burn.
Pro: A Calm Place
Many Carthage students swear that taking a moment to just sit on the rocks by the shore is the best way to relax. College is rough, so having the convenience of a beautiful day and view can do wonders for your mental health. So, if you can, just take a moment to step away from your phone and watch the waves. I promise it does wonders.
Living on the lake is definitely one of the best things about Carthage. And despite the fact that we complain about frostbite and wind-chill and everything in between, you have to agree that we live with one of the most beautiful college views of all time.