I recently visited my best friend at the once infamous Florida State University, now nationally famous for more than their bar scene and circus acts (insert schmacked). All it took was one weekend outside of my Gainesville comfort zone to realize the coexisting similarities and differences between UF and FSU. We hold similar conversations, but with different people. We participate in similar activities, but at different places. It all boils down to a simple fact: all college towns operate with the same formula.
Because of this fact, college students being a unified species, I’ve realized there are some quintessential do’s and don’t’s for visiting a foreign college town. Here are some of the basics.
Eat at the Local Joints
If it’s a staple at the college town in question, then there’s a good chance it’s not good for you and an even better chance that it’s delicious. When venturing into new food territory go equipped with an open mind. Who knows, you could fall in love with a certain dish that becomes something glorious to look forward to every time you return (i.e. how I feel about Mr. Roboto’s).
Scope Out the Nightlife
Spend your nights out at different types of bars that aren’t necessarily frequented by the crowd you’re accustomed to. This is supposed to be a special weekend after all! You only get to be in a different club/bar scene for a few nights, so don’t waste it by going to the same type of place every night.
Embrace the Bullies
Don’t be offended by the jokes — simply giggle, smile and walk away. It will happen to everyone, no matter the college and regardless of what city you’re in. It will get old fast, but give it your best and embrace it. Your friend will not appreciate you getting into a fight with some guy at the bar about whose school is better.
Comfort is a Priority
It’s probably going to get messy and you probably won’t be at a five star resort, but that’s okay. We can handle inconvenience while we’re this young. Nothing is more of buzz-kill than not being content with where you’ll be sleeping that night, but it would really suck to not be welcomed back for another visit. Make the most of it and enjoy the unpredictability.
Soul Searching
Take advantage of the fact that you don’t have a predetermined persona to oblige by, as is the case with your everyday life. You’re in a different city where you know fewer people and have less judgment being thrust upon you. Consider your visit a freebie to forget about your real life back home.
For anyone who has ever said to me “Oh yeah I’ve been to (insert city here) once, but I didn’t really have a good time or go out,” this is your answer. Excuse my accusatory tone, but consider this your guide to not sucking at your rival school.
I’ll leave you with this- it’s fine to go to Pot’s for happy hour and tell strangers that you’re actually your friend’s “older sister” from UF. It’s harmless to let them make comments about your football team’s ONE BAD SEASON. But it’s a tad inappropriate to respond with “Oh, did you get denied too?!” It always seems like a good joke at the time, but trust me, the rest of the bar won’t agree (his answer was yes, by the way).
