Campus Bingo

By Delaney Couri

On day 2 of my 11 day comprehensive exam writing portion, I decided to drag myself to campus so I could use the standing desk in my office. Even though it was early in my writing process, I already felt like I had not seen the sun in years. My clothes did not match the weather because for some reason, between the time I started writing on Friday and finished writing the same day, summer had returned to Texas. I was disheveled and exhausted, hoping to encounter no one on my half hour walk into my office.

Well, imagine my surprise when I not only was not alone on my way to campus, but instead ran into every group of students, faculty, staff, and community members imaginable. There were so many people on campus on that Saturday, that I decided to make a bingo of it. So, here is my idea of a campus bingo— and Saturday was a blackout.

Proposal under the century tree.

I typically walk under the century tree alone (*gasp*), but decided to change directions when I saw two couples getting ready to walk under the tree. As I turned course, I started to wonder if I was about to witness a proposal, texting a friend of mine as such. That’s when I saw people squatting behind trash cans and I realized— I really WAS going to see a proposal! Congratulations to those folks, and kudos to their friends for going the extra mile.

Student organization getting ready in the MSC.

I am not sure what dance troupe was preparing in the MSC, but there was a whole group of students blasting music, doing each other's hair and makeup, and seemingly preparing for something big. They looked lovely in their matching outfits and I hope their performance went well!

Student organization hosting a game day out on Spence Drill Field.

There seemed to be a lot of different student organizations on the field, as I saw multiple different colored shirts and matching bandanas adorning the players. The games ranged from Spikeball to volleyball to football, and the competition looked fierce and fun!

Students taking graduation photos.

A year and a half ago, I carried around clothes to help a friend of mine take graduation photos all across campus. Those fond memories came back to mind as I encountered a girl switching out stoles in front of the seal. Her family waited anxiously on the benches as her photographer worked to get the best angle for all of her shots. The day was beautiful and I’m sure her photos reflected that beauty.

A family on campus with a stroller.

I have run into multiple families that I know on campus, but my favorite memories come from the times I see them and their babies in strollers or on bikes.

A lost student trying to find a bus.

I smiled at a girl as I was passing the bus stop by the MSC only to have her approach me. I was not in the mood to talk to anyone, but when she spoke, hesitantly and gently, I realized she was simply lost and looking for a bus. I am not sure that I helped her, but I hope that she was able to make it to the recreation center in one piece.

The next time you’re on campus, see how many of these you can check off in one day…