As Homecoming weekend comes to a close, week eight begins. It’s been a busy time of classes in full swing, homecoming festivities and, for many of us, midterms scattered throughout or beginning. Coming down from the chaos and “reentering” the academic world is not without difficulty, and Bobcats are rather busy.
Homecoming 2021, serving as the first “hybrid” Homecoming, allowed for both digital and in-person events to intertwine and create a worthwhile celebration. With a variety of options throughout the week catering to just about every interest, celebrating was able to occur in more ways than one.
In terms of normalcy, Homecoming festivities did not disappoint. Various virtual events filled the week in preparation, including the “It’s All Coming Back” Homecoming exhibit, the Paint the Town Green decoration contest and the “OHIO Sense of Place: Alden Library” exhibit. Classes such as the Bobcat mixology event as well as demos for both Jefferson Marketplace Culinary Studio’s sour cream coffee cake and fried ravioli were also featured. With digital options available, more events were able to take place.
In-person events during Homecoming Week also contributed to the normalcy. Traditions such as the Yell Like Hell Pep Rally and Homecoming Parade were able to occur alongside the inclusion of a live stream accompanying the parade for those unable to make it. For those who were feeling adventurous, the OHIO Homecoming 5K Fun Run and Walk kicked off its race Saturday morning at 8 a.m. Traditions certainly represent Homecoming well, allowing for a sense of Bobcat pride to all.
Sporting events were also prominent and plentiful over the weekend for Homecoming. Bobcat hockey, kicking off its two games with a 9-1 win Friday night, hit Bird Arena again Saturday night for another 8-2 win against Roosevelt. Volleyball also held two Homecoming matches, facing both Eastern and Central Michigan, with a victory against the latter on Saturday. Of course, the football game also aided in providing normal Homecoming tradition. Despite the game resulting in a loss against Central Michigan, Homecoming traditions such as the addition of the alumni band carried through.
It’s safe to say that a lot went on, and there’s still a lot going on. The Monday after Homecoming hits, and everything seems to pick back up again, throwing us mercilessly right into week eight. It’s the halfway point of the semester, and midterms are quickly coming and going. With such events and happenings comes the continued need to prioritize taking care of yourself and others.
2021 Homecoming was successful, packed with events and, as a result, just about as normal as it could be. Filled with the right amount of anticipation, the celebrations were able to carry through and carry on. Reflect on Homecoming fondly, and take care of yourself as the semester continues.
Lauren Patterson is a junior studying journalism. Please note that the views and ideas of columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Lauren? Tweet her @lpaatt.
