The Region is the large Northwest corner of the state of Indiana that houses a diverse array of people, places, and attitudes; a place that has developed quite the unique reputation throughout the state, otherwise known as the “armpit” of Indiana. Amongst its flaws, it also has some bright spots that make my fellow “region rats” proud to call it home. Here is a list of some region specifics every college kid misses when heading back to school after break:

1. Illinois drivers.

Being so close to the state line, Region folks tend to share the roads with our Illinois neighbors. These people tend to drive much faster and much more aggressively than Indiana people. Nothing like blaring horns and middle fingers to ensure you’ve got your eyes on the road.

2. Dunkin’ Donuts happy hour.

The horror that is being deprived of 99-cent iced coffee.

3. The perfect blend of industrial and rural scenery.

One of the region’s most unique features. A strange combination of city and farming elements. You might be passing rolling plains of corn, but drive down the road a few minutes and you’ll be in the company of refineries and factories. Scenery that thrills via the element of surprise.

4. HELL IS REAL/JESUS IS REAL.

The region won’t let you get away with hopping on I-65 without first contemplating your spiritual competency. Short, sweet, and straight to the obnoxious point.

5. Central Time.

Nothing is more depressing than losing an hour of your life just for making the journey to central Indiana. Things just seem to move faster up in the Region. There is just something unnatural about Eastern time.

6. Easy Chi-Town access.

Although the Region houses its own sources of entertainment, it is somewhat conveniently located near the most beautiful city in the country. Chicago provides endless opportunities to have fun. Making the 45-minute trip for some great food, atmosphere, or sporting event is all too accessible.

7. Diamond Jim’s Bar.

The perfect place to play some pool, reek of cigarette smoke, and run in to everyone you’ve ever met previously.

8. Munster Donut.

Reasonably priced. Fresh. Delicious. Region famous. Open 24 hours. Enough said.

9. Region-wide high school reunions.

Yes, we all claimed we were dying to get out of there. But it can be a little bittersweet reuniting with all your buddies and having to leave them all over again. The region raised us, and it’s nice to spend some time with the people who were there at the beginning.

10. Portillo’s Hot Dogs.

A sanctuary of Chicago-style food in a Region location. There is a reason the line is out the door. Killer dogs, sandwiches, shakes, and their famous chocolate cake. Yum.

11. Sip Coffee House and Artisan Cafe.

Sweetly located in the friendly Crown Point Square, this place provides a unique spot for sipping caffeine. Spending time amongst their great playlists, art, and food is a solid way to kill an afternoon.

12. Lake Michigan.

Even during the winter, Lake Michigan provides some stellar views. Hiking the dunes is possible during every season, with access points throughout the region. There is something comforting about looking across the water towards Chicago’s skyline.

If you're from the region, the relationship you have established is probably love/hate. However, we can’t deny the comfort of home. Thanks for the memories, The Region, it’ll always be a little tough to leave you.