There's truly no place quite like 800 E Lancaster Ave. A true home away from home for all of us, being a Villanova Wildcat is an honor that I think every single student takes very seriously. Whether you're the third generation of a Nova dynasty, or happened to stumble upon this one-of-kind college on the Mainline (like your's truly), we are all apart of the greatest community (cheesy Villanova key word, I know) higher education has to offer: the Nova Nation. Here are 7 little things that everyone loves about Villanova University...
1. The center of campus is just referred to as "The Oreo"
Because what other campus in the country is centered around a cookie like sculpture? Only "The Oreo" would be able to rival the classic landmark of St. Thomas of Villanova Church.
2. Holy Grounds' iced caramel coffee.
What else would college students wait in that endless line up the stairs of Bartley other than the greatest drink known to mankind? Seriously, this coffee concoction is the best pick-me-up ever. It's single-handily powering me through business analytics. Also, quick side note: how awesome is the name "Holy Grounds?!" So Catholic. So Nova.
3. Everyone ALWAYS holds the door open.
Don't ask me how many times I have had to awkwardly shuffle up the stairs of Bartley with a 30-pound backpack strapped to me because Villanova literally has the politest student body and someone is patiently holding the door open for me. Seriously, it makes my day every single time.
4. Thanking the professor after each class.
The politeness of the Villanova student body doesn't stop at the door (literally). It never ceases to amaze me that nearly every single person in the class will refrain from rushing out the door after class, and instead will take the time to express gratitude for the education they just received. Reason #19085 to love being a Wildcat.
5. The Stall Street Journal.
Okay, whoever came up with this name deserves an infinite amount of praise. I laugh every single time I see that piece of paper secured to the back of the bathroom stall door. And the information is legit too! Just another dorky, so Villanova detail that I love about this campus.
6. Sundaes on Sunday.
Okay, full disclosure, I am lactose-intolerant so I, unfortunately, do not get to partake fully in this treat (you better believe I eat a bowl full of gummy bears and M&Ms meant to be toppings), but from what I can gather from my friends and the giant line at the dessert bar, this is a very beloved Sunday tradition. Good work Villanova dining halls! (I still have some issues with that taco pasta you serve, but that rant is for another time)
7. Once you're a Wildcat, you're always a Wildcat.
Who knew a phrase uttered by Disney hero Troy Bolton would mean so much to all of us now? While smy gratitude sometimes gets buried under a mountain of homework and studying, I will forever be grateful that I am small piece in the Nova Nation. We are blessed to make up the best college community in the world, and while these seven little things may seem insignificant, they're what make us Villanova Wildcats.
