As myself and other students trek through the frozen tundra we call Hope College, it is hard for me to not wish for spring. The wind whips at my face, the snow blinds me as I walk from my dorm to class, and every part of me feels frozen. My only goal is to make it into the warmth of one of the buildings without falling on the ice-covered paths. My mind races with different thoughts and questions about the state in which I live. I have to remind myself daily that soon this winter business will all be over. Whether you love winter or are just as sick of it as I am, there are so many things to look forward to when spring finally comes.

1. The Sun

After living in the dark and dreariness of winter for so long, finally seeing the sun is a welcome sight. No longer do we have to look at grey and cloudy skies as we walk to class, but instead can marvel at the bright blue above our heads.

2. Wearing Chacos

The choice footwear for a majority of college students. Though they can be worn with socks, it just isn't the same. Once people start to break out their Chacos, it is an obvious sign that spring is on its way.

3. Hammocking

One of the favorite past times of Hope College students. After class it's nice to head out to the Pine Grove and set up your hammock in between two trees. It's relaxing and a great way to spend an afternoon whether you're with friends, doing some homework, or just relaxing.

4. Hanging out in the Pine Grove

Speaking of the Pine Grove, during the winter it's pretty hard to hang out there because of all of the snow. Once all of that melts the Pine grove becomes one of the most relaxing places on campus. The trees provide the perfect amount of shade to hang out with friends or get some homework done.

5. Not having to bundle up to go to class

One of the worst things in the world is having to put on a heavy coat, boots, scarf, hat, and mittens just to walk to class or dinner. You have to plan to leave a few minutes earlier than normal in order to make sure you have all of your winter gear on. With spring, all of those essentials for winter disappear, no longer needed for the nice weather.

6. The beach

One of the best parts about going to Hope College is that we're only a few minutes from the beach. Though it's cool to go there in winter and see all of the snow built up around the pier, nothing beats spring and summer at the beach. The water and the sand are warmer and you can spend all day walking the pier, laying out, and playing in the water.

7. Spring break

With spring comes the second best break of the school year. Whether you're going somewhere warm and tropical, or just hanging out at home, spring break is an entire week where you don't have to deal with the stress of classes. It is a well-deserved break that signals the near-end of the spring semester.