Let's be honest here -- my countdown for sophomore year move-in day began on the day I moved out of my freshman dorm.
And finally, that countdown is slowly, but surely dwindling day by day. Because, in less than two weeks, we will all return to our favorite place, and second home -- St. Bonaventure University.
If you're a part of the "Bona Bubble," you understand the happiness that Bona's brings to you, and how much you miss the place when you're away from it for four months too long.
So, here are the things I have missed most about Bona's during my summer break, and some that I bet you missed, too.
1. Basketball games in the RC.
Probably one of my all-time favorite things about being a Bonnie. The energy we devote to these games is something that is indescribable, unless you're actually there. We all come together and our school spirit shines as we cheer for our favorite team.
2. Campus during the winter.
Walking to class in frigid weather isn't something I'm too fond of, but boy, do I love to admire our beautiful campus with it's white and frosty glow during the colder months.
3. Breakfast at the Hickey 'til 2 P.M. on the weekends.
One of the only times I thoroughly enjoy the Hickey is during breakfast. The best thing is being able to sleep 'til twelve after a late weekend night and waltz into the Hickey and have an omelette made to order.
4. Café La Verna.
The coziest place to study during the winter, the best place to get milkshakes/smoothies, and the only place that's open every night until 2:00 A.M.
5. Weekend Mangia's/Skeller trips at 2 A.M.
OK, maybe I just love food a little too much, but seriously. There's nothing better than late-night Mangia's pizza or Skeller fries, am I right?
6. The people.
Now, I know this is a pretty broad one, but when I say "people" I mean my people. The people I connect with, the warm and welcoming faces I see every day walking to class, my professors, and, of course, my best friends. I never would have met all of these amazing people if I didn't choose Bona's, and I'm so glad I did because I wouldn't be who I am today without them.
7. The Bona Bus.
I wish I knew the bus drivers' names, because they are the true MVPs on campus. I give them major credit for driving us college kids on and off campus every weekend night. Honestly, there's really nothing better than having a reliable D.D. and a source of transportation with heat when it's too cold to walk to parties. Plus, it's always a somewhat memorable experience being on that bus.
8. Walks on the Allegany Trail.
Sometimes, the stress of college can be overwhelming, and one of the best ways to de-stress after a long day is to go on a walk on the trail with my closest friends and talk about our problems.
9. The SBU Hip Hop Team.
Dance has been a passion of mine since I was three-years old, so it's been pretty rough the past couple months without dancing nearly every day. Plus, practice is always an excuse I like to use to not go to the gym, because dance is workout in itself.
10. The Social Life.
Bona's has a social life like no other. From the process of getting ready to the pre-game sessions in your room to the walk to Main Street -- every weekend night is a new adventure.
In just a few days, I will be starting a new journey as a sophomore, and I will be reunited with my favorite place on earth.
I've missed you, Bona's!