Springtime at Oberlin comes in waves. First come a sunny few token warm days, when the snow suddenly halts during the late winter months. While climate-wise potentially concerning, I can’t deny the guilty pleasure of feeling the sun on my skin after months of puffer coats and chilly fingers. I find myself stalking the weather app a week in advance, planning my day (and outfit) with excitement and anticipation. The next wave comes in short bursts, periods between one and three days with previews of sixty-degree weather. After some back and forth of this, springtime comes for good. Suddenly, the former excitement over fifty-degree weather becomes the norm. No matter what springtime phase it is, warm weather can always be detected by Obies spreading throughout the fields and quads of campus, soaking in the sunshine.
This can be seen in a multitude of forms, whether it’s picnics, study sessions, improv dancing, or music playing. Looking around at all the happy students sparks springtime in an Obie’s heart like the sun does on an Obie’s skin. When I’m leaving class, heading to the library, or grabbing a bite, I love stumbling across a group of friends sprawled on the grass--it’s the best distraction I’ve ever encountered. I want to do everything outside--meals, readings, work, exercise, nap--you name it.
When I first came to campus in August, I distinctly remember partaking in games set up all over Tappan Square as former strangers became future friends. Hanging out in the quads, surrounded by Obies, I immediately felt so comfortable and at home; a common and favorite trait of mine within Obies is their approachability. While the winter months provide an opportunity for cozy spots and warm beverages, returning to the lively nature of warm weather at Oberlin has been so exciting.
Not only is quad lounging a great way to spend time with friends, but the open fields create a great environment to meet new people and try new activities. There’s always a frisbee game to be joined, friendly Obies and people from the town to chat with, or a stranger playing their instrument. Many of my favorite memories have been made during my fall and spring semesters when the quads come to life.
