Time to face the facts. Yes, Colorado Mesa University is not the University of Colorado Boulder, nor is it Colorado State University.
Before you find me in my office and beat me with an obvious stick, let that thought truly sink in. Of course, you know CMU isn’t the same as the big schools that some of our friends attend. No, our homecoming will not have the same glitz and glamour as those schools.
But that does not mean our homecoming deserves to get the shaft and not have our students attend.
Like every Programming Activities Council event or school-sponsored function, it is up to how much effort the student puts into their participation of the event, that will ultimately dictate how much fun those events are.
Associated Student Government and other organizations put together largely similar events every year. The bonfire and parade are staples of homecoming week as is the small carnival that takes place in the plaza, near the University Center.
After four years here, I can honestly say different years have had different levels of fun. The number one reason for that wasn’t due to anything the people who put on those events did, it had to do with my attitude.
As a freshman when I heard about homecoming week I pictured the college parties I’ve seen in movies. When I was met with a carnival with inflatables from the local fun park, my week was ruined due to my perception. I expected something grand, not me jousting with my two friends and maybe getting a free cotton candy.
That year was miserable because I chose to be miserable. As soon as I accepted that those grand festivals weren’t happening at CMU, the sooner I began to have fun during the following homecoming weeks.
It’s not about what inflatable or food is at the events, it’s about choosing to make the most of every situation that is handed to you. Have fun with the silly games. Make an effort to see the amazing floats your fellow students made and for the love of all that is holy, show up to the tailgate and homecoming game no matter how lame you think it is.
Before you know it, your time with your friends and people you have made amazing memories with will end. You’ll wish you spent less time complaining about what’s given to you, and more time trying to make your own fun.
I will be on a trip for my final homecoming week, and while I am excited for the events that weekend, part of me is bummed I won’t have one last chance to be a student and enjoy the festivities homecoming brings. Stop complaining about the events not being spectacular. Enjoy homecoming and being a student while it lasts.
