Being that I am from the southern region of Idaho that is often times referred to as “Bronco Nation,” I have had my fair share of Boise State fanatics and despite the title winning football team’s impact on Boiseans, I still choose that little nook of the Palouse up north called Moscow. To some I seem insane. How could I not bleed orange and blue especially when I love my hometown so much? The answers are limitless, but this is a good start.

1. The obvious. We are Idaho’s #1 officially official university. FLAGSHIP PRIDE BABY!
2. We tailgate harder than those Broncos could ever play.
3. We are rooted in over one hundred years of tradition.
4. Speaking of tradition, the monumental moments that have happened here are also a big bonus.
5. President Theodore Roosevelt was the first of multiple presidents to visit the university and plant his very own tree which landmarked President’s Grove.
6. Our alumni are as strong as they are vast and they never lose touch with their Alma Mater. From NFL players to politicians to Olympic gold medalists we have them all.
7. Two words. Kibbie Dome. Rain, sun, snow, wind ain't got nothing on us.
8. Hello Walk, our Administration lawn’s walkway, was designed by the same group that landscaped Central Park.
9. To be confidently girly, our colors are far better. Silver and gold are regal, add a touch of black to look like a true Vandal. Let’s not even touch on the blue and orange color scheme, yikes!
10. We have been ranked in the top 150 universities for research by Forbe’s magazine.
11. I gotta say it. We may party hard, but we still have a higher graduation rate.
12. We have 16 varsity sports teams that work their asses off.
13. We have over 30 areas of study to choose from with amazingly helpful and inspiring staff to guide us.
14. We have our favorite advisors who help us navigate this roller coaster of a journey. Tim Helmke is my life line and many many other Vandals would and will say the same. Couldn't have made it to senior year without your encouragement and love!
15. We have over 200 clubs and student organizations to fit any interest. Literally anything. Shout out to laughing club!
16. We are 2nd in the Pacific Northwest among universities for having an overall remarkable educational experience.
17. The Fight Song! Catchy, fun and still rubs it in BSU’s face whose state this is.
18. We ranked in the top 50 for the “Best Bang for your Buck” national universities. Score!
19. We are Idaho’s leading research university, receiving more than $100 million a year to fund innovative research and education.
20. Our campus maybe a pain to trek to class each day, but it is so beautiful that it kind of makes up for it.
21. The Greek system. Say what you will, but it guided thousands of students into becoming the successful and well-rounded adults they are today.
22. We honestly are a family. Being a Vandal is a lifelong commitment to having a good time and being damn proud while doing it.

Boise city will always have a piece of my heart, but home is here in Moscow. I know I speak for other Vandals when I say that the experience the University of Idaho has to offer could not be matched by any other.

Simply stated, GO IDAHO!