Whenever anyone decides on a college their first option is to stay in state or get the heck out. For me, I wasn't too sure about what I wanted. All I knew was that wherever I went had better had a good sports team and nice people.
If you're struggling to find your path, allow me to tell you my top five reasons Kansas is the place to be!
1. Everyone is so nice.
Have you ever heard the term "southern hospitality"? OK, now think of that on steroids. The midwest does not play when it comes to making you feel welcome. I grew up in an environment where you didn't think to give thanks for a good task. In Kansas they'll say thank you, compliment your outfit, and tell you that you are a wonderful human being in the span of five minutes of talking to someone.
2. You're a fun road trip away from major attractions.
Kansas City, MO
Whether your fancy is the big city or sports, Kansas covers all of those bases. From the famous Kansas Speedway to Kansas City, MO (yes, I know this isn't actually in Kansas but it's really RIGHT on the edge) you can take that weekend trip with your girls or your guys and de-stress in the city. If you're looking for things to do when you get there, check out this list of FREE attractions and activities in Kansas City. Your wallet will thank me later.
3. Every town is so unique.
Capital building in Topeka, KS
If you're looking for the road trip appeal without the big city at the end, Kansas also has several smaller towns/cities which all give their own unique twist to the midwest. From Topeka, the capital of Kansas, you have the smaller city appeal. There is also Manhattan, home of the K-State Wildcats (I'm biased). Lawrence, home of the University of Kansas. And finally Wichita, the largest city in Kansas. They all give a different environment and have individual events scattered throughout the year. Here is a link to a calendar of events around Kansas with an interactive map so you can plan your next getaway.
4. Sunflowers. That is all.
How can one person not look at a patch of sunflowers and smile? Seriously, if you can, please let me know how. From your basic sunflower selfie to navigating through a patch like its September in a cornfield, I can't really think of a reason anyone would dislike these flowers. Plus, imagine receiving them as a gift? How rustic and adorable is that!? These beauties are what gives Kansas the nickname "The Sunflower State."
5. The weather keeps you on your toes.
OK, this is a little sarcastic, I'm not gonna lie. But, if you've never been here for a period of time, you have no clue what I'm talking about. During the winter months (mainly after the new year), you'll see snow accumulate up to a foot or so. However, the summer doesn't mess around either. Summers in Kansas are your traditional hot and humid days, just add high 90's temperatures and your set. One thing that does stay constant is the wind, I'm not a geographical guru so I have no idea how it works, but there is not a day I do not feel some wind when I walk outside. But hey, I like switching things up so at least the weather keeps me excited.
Coming to Kansas was the best decision of my life. You can call me dramatic, but I'm a ways from home, and this place has become a second home to me. I love the reliability of the people, the views, and the excitingness of not knowing what to expect with the weather (seriously don't know how people stay in one place with consistent weather). If there is anything on here that seems appealing to you, seriously, check out some of the places here. There's really no harm in looking!
