I used to take some of the unique elements of Gettysburg’s campus for granted. However, after spending a semester studying at the University of Wollongong in Australia, I realize how much I missed the little things that make this campus special.
Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity, but returning to campus feels a lot like coming back home. To reflect on this experience, I wanted the top ten things (in no particular order) that I missed the most during my time away from Gettysburg.
1. Eating at Servo
There’s something wonderfully reassuring about the fact that there will always be a delicious hot meal waiting for you after a long day of classes. If you’re like me and don’t have a meal plan while abroad, you’ll miss how convenient and welcoming our dining hall can be. Plus, it’s always a pleasure to chat with the friendly Servo staff.
The Gettysburgian
2. Servo Cookies
Bake From Scratch
Enjoying daily access to warm, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies is one of the main perks of studying at Gettysburg. Whether you’re at Servo for lunch or attending a college-sponsored event, you’ll come across these high-quality desserts very often.
3. Gettysburg’s Squirrels
Flickr
Are they terrifying at times? Yes. After all, one of them knocked out most of the power on campus the other day.
But will you miss them? Absolutely! After spending four months in a place devoid of squirrels, watching them scurry around campus always makes my day.
4. Living on Campus
College Magazine
For most students at Gettysburg, classes are less than a ten-minute walk from their residence hall, so it’s easy to stop back for a nap or to pick up some extra books. It’s hard to appreciate how convenient that is until your commute gets longer and more complicated.
5. Your Professors
Admissionado
Gettysburg College professors are one of a kind. They remember your name, invite you to do research with them outside of class, and really get to know you by the end of the semester. If you study abroad at a bigger university, you’re likely to miss the personal touch provided by Gettysburg’s faculty.
6. Midnight Madness
Because there’s no better way to spend a Saturday night than by enjoying some midnight karaoke, donuts, and motz sticks with your friends.
7. Exploring the Town’s History
Flickr
As the site of a major Civil War battle, the town of Gettysburg exudes a connection with the past that it is hard to find anywhere else. From sunset walks on the battlefield to historic ghost tours on chilly fall evenings, living here offers endless opportunities to indulge your inner history buff.
8. The Lincoln Diner
Trip Advisor
Stopping by LD’s for some 2 a.m. breakfast is practically a rite of passage for Gettysburg College students. It’s a great place to catch up with friends or grab a little food after a late night out partying or cramming for finals. When you spend a semester (or two) studying abroad, it can be tough to find a place as iconic as this classic all-night diner.
9. The Fall Leaves
Gettysburg Hotel
In some parts of the world, autumn does not entail watching the leaves change from green into an array of vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows. If you study during your host country’s fall, you might find yourself missing the colors of a Gettysburg autumn.
10. Your Friends
It can be tough to spend a whole semester away from your friend group, but when you come back, you’ll have some amazing stories to share with them!