I am heading back to Oberlin in a little over a week, and have been reminiscing on what I’ve been missing about Oberlin all summer. I’ve had the funnest adventures over the past 3 months, but I am so ready to return to my wonderful Obieland. So here are some of the things I’ve missed the most:
My Friends
I met so many new people traveling and doing programs this summer, and as wonderful as they all were, it made me miss the deep bonds I’ve formed at Oberlin over the past three years. I’ve lived with my friends in this tiny town so long that they know my ins and outs and little quirks. They also know exactly what I need when I’m feeling down or on top of the world. I’ve missed only being a maximum 10 minute walk away from them at any given moment. Being able to text them to grab dinner in 5 minutes was a luxury I was definitely taking for granted. ALSO never underestimate the power of a late night Sheetz run. I only had Sheetz for the first time in my junior year - AND THAT WAS A MISTAKE! Is it the best food you will ever eat? No. Is it the only food available in the midwest 24/7? Yes! Explore it as soon as you can.
Lessons with My Oberlin Professor
Maybe only conservatory Obies will be able to relate to this one, but I’ve missed lessons with my professor at Oberlin SO MUCH! I took lessons with some wonderful teachers this summer and learned a lot of new things about my voice; however, there is nothing like going into a lesson with a teacher who really KNOWS you and your instrument. Usually, within 60 seconds of the start of my lesson, my professor can tell how I’m doing that day. And depending on if I’m really struggling or if I’m having the best day of my life, that will influence how my lesson needs to go. Particularly for singers, our emotional, mental, and physical health influences our voices so much, and I think it’s really important to have a teacher who understands that. What each individual needs from a teacher is vastly different, but I’ve found a perfect fit here at Oberlin!
A Shock to Myself… The Dining Halls
I feel like one of my biggest complaints during the school year is the food on campus. But honestly, until this summer I didn’t realize how lucky we are with all of our options. The best one being: Stevenson Breakfast. My family doesn’t really do breakfast, and that is something that changed on my end when I went to college. I LOVE breakfast! It is so true that it is the most important meal of the day. Having a full breakfast buffet already prepared every morning is SUCH a luxury. Obviously, I could (and do) have pancakes, eggs, and bacon at home, but I have to make it, which isn’t the most fun first thing in the morning. I miss not having to cook! Umami hot bowls and the Rathskeller have been two of my saving graces for quick take-away meals at Oberlin. Call me lazy, but it is REALLY nice to have already made food (mostly) whenever you want.
I am so so excited to return to Oberlin, and all of these things that I have missed so much! The next time I write to you, I will be back - see you soon!!
