The Motherland. The happiest place on earth. The College Kid's Disney. hOUme. Whatever you call it, Ohio University holds a piece of every students heart forever. While spending your four (or five) years on campus, there are several distinct factors that all Bobcats seem to notice. Whether you love them or loathe them, these things will always remain true to those who attend OU.

1. Halloween isn't just for kids.

Or should I say HallOUween? The tiny town of Athens, OH is home to one of the largest block parties in the U.S. You may have forgone trick-or-treating once you outgrew the your fav Halloween costume, but once you become a Bobcat, costume coordination gets taken to a whole new level.

2. You will have a class in Bentley. And you will sweat the entire time.

I don't know about you, but nothing gets my brain going in the morning like suffering through heat stroke at 8:35 a.m. on a Monday. Home to at least one of your gen eds, Bentley Hall will become very familiar. The true value of layering can't be discovered until you dealt with a 80-minute lecture in a 90-degree classroom . It's honestly impressive that a building that large can be heated so thoroughly.

3. Calories don't count after 2 a.m.

With so many amazing local food options available way past your normal bedtime, there is no need to shame yourself for indulging once (or twice) in a while. From Big Mamma's to Union Street Diner, there is no reason to avoid enjoying all the local eats that are available to you after hours.

4. Meal swipes > Real Money

Nothing says desperation like befriending a freshman with a flex meal plan. But I'll do it if it means Shiv subs whenever my hear desires. There is nothing, NOTHING, that underclassmen take for granted and upperclassmen miss more than having a meal plan. Don't even get me started on flex points.

5. You may be from Columbus, but being a Bobcat always trumps being a Buckeye.

Majestic Feline vs. Tree Nut. Need I say more?

6. Bobcats work hard and play harder.

You will probably fall in love with OU throughout your first year, and that instant you know that you will do anything to avoid screwing that up. For many of us, that means studying hard, working in dining halls and staying involved. There is no shame in spending the night in Alden or picking up extra shifts, because those moments ensure that you will remain part of this campus. And anyway, the harder you work, the crazier the celebration.

7. Ellis Bathrooms contain all the #Inspiration you will ever need.

Nothing says motivation like reading a Harry Potter quote while you hover over a toilet seat. From political discussions to your favorite literary lines, the bathrooms in Ellis will inspire more than any other bathroom stall ever could.

8. Ohio University will be your home.

Somewhere in between your first days on campus to your graduation day, Ohio University will be more than a place where you take classes. It will grow to be a comfort that you can't imagine saying goodbye to, but before you know it, you'll end up having to.