1. To carry an umbrella EVERYWHERE
Yes Indiana is affectionately known at "Windinana" because it's so damn windy, but those who know IUP best know that it stands for It Usually Precipitates. It is literally always pouring. Rain, sleet, snow, hail, you name it. If you're in Indiana, something is falling from the sky. Thankfully you've learned to carry an umbrella everywhere so getting stuck in a rain storm is no problemo, no matter what city.
2. How to have fun in a city with nothing
Let's face it, Indiana, Pa. is not New York City by any stretch of the means. With that being said, you've found a way to make it just as fun with what you were given. Philly street restaurants became your favorite, a day at the lake is always a good time and with the right people, you can always have a good time. IUP taught you that it's the people that mean the most.
3. How to go out
That's right, going out is a skill and one that many have not conquered. You know not to be surprised by cover if there is one, to find the bars with specials and to tip your bartender - or at least feel bad if you don't. You know all the party fouls and when the music stops playing you, of course, have to pound on the wall shouting "no music." You know how to have conversations with strangers over drinks. Networking! When you go out in any city, it's not your first rodeo.
4. A great taste in party music
Because Panda is not just an animal and Ignition is not just a remix, it's the remix.
5. How to stay warm
When everyday it's negative 15 degrees outside and your president is from Alaska, you have no choice but to brace the cold, make your way to class and figure out how to stay warm along the way. When it gets cold outside of Indiana, your only thought is "I've been though worse."
6. How to go after what you want
You only get out of IUP what you put in. There are no hand-outs. There is no one to babysit you and walk you across the stage to graduation. That's all on you. But it's taught you that you're capable of getting where you want to be no matter what it may take.
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