If you're like me then you probably thought to yourself, how is a major university campus out here in the mix of wheat fields? It is hard to believe that a small, rural town in eastern Washington harbors one of the best college experiences offered in the United States. So, what makes it so special? Why does WSU leave a lasting impression on everyone who comes face to face with it? Allow me to enlighten you.
 
It's the people… Pullman may not offer the plethora of activities other cities can, however that is its best trait. As a member of WSU, you are surrounded by like-minded individuals who made a conscious decision to leave their suburban oasis and journey out of their comfort zone. The culmination of thousands of students exiting their comfort zone is simple: a bond. A deep and meaningful bond that is not shared over clothes or books - rather hardship, perseverance, and experience. This bond carries over when the streets of Pullman are no longer home, with alumni saying 'Go Cougs' to every sweatshirt or hat worn by strangers in airports, workplaces and more. For a brief second, one Coug to another, there is a bond between strangers over a place that changed their life… and could change yours too.
 
One of the most beloved college football coaches of all time, Mike Leach, said this: "I will forever be proud, and if I'm not careful, emotional about my time at Washington State."
 
Four-time NBA champion, Klay Thompson: "If I could go back and do it again, I would choose Pullman again, every day of the week," when asked about his time on the Palouse.
 
Thompson summed it up beautifully from an athlete perspective, highlighting that it is an athletes dream to be in Pullman as there is no distractions and you focus on becoming the best student-athlete you can. Everyone wants to win from the weight room staff to academic advisors, culture is not a banner on the wall – it is a conscious effort daily to uphold the standard of being a Washington State Cougar.
 
So, if the people don't get it done, how about some tangible things to do?
 
If you are a nature lover and the pacific northwest is calling, Pullman has trails and hikes including Kamiak Butte and Bill Chipman trail. Pullman is the self-proclaimed 'sunset capitol of the world' with magnificent burnt orange skies weekly, whether it be from the Walmart parking lot or Palouse Ridge Golf Course. In the wintertime, white rolling hills and the comfort of coffee shops remain beautiful.
 
If outdoor activity is more the style, playing pickleball or disc golf at Sunnyside Park is a weekend event. For the more laid-back vibe, playing 18 holes at WSU's gorgeous Palouse Ridge Golf Course is always a classic among athletes and staff. The Snake River hosts almost all WSU students in the summertime with fun dunes and water activities. Now, despite what you may or may not believe, there are outdoor activities during the winter such as: sledding down the plethora of hills Pullman provides, watching a snow filled cougar football game or just plain snow angels in your front yard.
 
Beyond what any blog can tell you – there is always something to do.
 
If you want a university that will wrap its arms around you for life, then Washington State is the place for you. No prestigious degree or big city can surpass the everlasting pride of looking back on the best four years of your life and saying, "I am a Coug Forever."
 
Join the family.