The Quad.

Ah, the Quad.

Many fond college memories center around this den of faux photosynthesis (True Green is actually just green paint, ya know.)

The columns, the walkways, the triangle bench and the Exploding Cube are all key players in past experiences. I’ve enjoyed many a free period lounging in the quad’s various locales. Only when the sun is out, of course. That’s when other people are actually in the quad. If you’re seen sitting on a bench when it’s overcast and slightly chilly you’re immediately pegged as a loner…or someone who couldn’t find a seat in the café or couch area.

Living on campus this summer has given me a rare chance to see campus without having the worry of getting to my next class or deftly trying to avoid eye contact with a passerby. Campus looks…well it looks like any other day during the school year when students are simply hiding indoors. But I can feel the calm that comes with having no papers to write, no terrible “food” to endure and no parties to think about going to (I’m the only one who ever just thinks about going to a party. I assume other people actually go).

I’ve spent a lot of time in the quad these last few weeks of summer vacation. Just walking around and soaking in the very collegiate feel it has. I did the unthinkable and walked in the grass. “Gasp!” you say, “no one but the hippies and art kids walk on the grass in the quad!” Ah, so soon you forget, anonymous reader, that I am half art student. But walking in the grass also gives one the chance to actually be in the sun, which is quite good for you.

I still haven’t gotten tan.

Oh well.

When I leave Bellarmine (to supposedly never or rarely return) I will miss the quad. It’s lush grass and remaining trees. The Exploding Cube (which I regret not covering in tin foil or silk flowers). How well it hosts impromptu Frisbee games, a lunch outside and procrastination between classes. But like I said…only when it’s sunny.