College traditions are the hidden threads that weave together the rich tapestry of academic life, fostering community spirit and creating lasting memories. Across the United States, various institutions boast unique customs that are steeped in history and filled with pride. These traditions range from the quaint and quirky to the loudly and proudly bizarre, yet they all serve to unify students and alumni alike. Today, we delve into 8 such traditions that stand out for their uniqueness and the cultural enrichment they bring to their respective campuses. Join us as we explore these time-honored college traditions that continue to resonate with students long after their caps have been tossed into the air.
1. The Little 500 – Indiana University
The Little 500, or “Little Five,” is one of the most storied and engaging athletic traditions in collegiate lore. Held annually at Indiana University, it’s a bicycle race that mimics the Indianapolis 500 in a college setting. Since 1951, male and female teams from various campus organizations pedal their way to glory, not just for the thrill of victory but also to raise scholarship funds. Affectionately termed “The World’s Greatest College Weekend,” this event epitomizes Hoosier spirit and has even inspired the film “Breaking Away.”
2. The Midnight Scream – Cornell University
During finals week at Cornell University, an unearthly tradition known as the “Midnight Scream” pierces the quiet of the night. Students open their windows or step outside at midnight and let out collective screams to vent the stress of examinations. This cathartic exercise reverberates through the campus, reminding students that they are not alone in their academic challenges and providing a moment of unifying relief amid the rigors of study.
3. Mirror Lake Jump – The Ohio State University
Before their annual football match against the University of Michigan, Ohio State University students partake in a daring tradition: they jump en masse into the frigid waters of Mirror Lake. Although the tradition has seen some regulation changes due to safety concerns, it remains a hallmark of Buckeye boldness and camaraderie, symbolizing a collective plunge into the spirit of friendly rivalry.
4. Muckleshoot – Cooper Union
At Cooper Union, an elite engineering and architecture school in New York City, students participate in an unusual and messy tradition. Right before final exams in the fall, they take part in the “Muckleshoot” event, where a sludge of chalk dust, chocolate syrup, and other creative and goopy substances are flung across the central hall. This quirky rite of passage is meant to alleviate stress and no doubt leaves a memorable mark on all who partake.
5. The Great Tommy Trojan Egg Hunt – University of Southern California
Each year, the University of Southern California hosts an Easter egg hunt with a twist. The campus statue of Tommy Trojan becomes the epicenter for the event, with hidden eggs containing not just candy, but also vouchers for prizes, gift cards, and other campus treasures. This fun and festive tradition unites students in a light-hearted search that celebrates the season with a sense of Trojan family spirit.
6. The Green Beer Day – Miami University of Ohio
Miami University of Ohio hosts an unusual St. Patrick’s Day-celebration known as Green Beer Day. This day-long event takes place every year on the Thursday before Spring Break, starting bright and early at 5:30 AM with local bars opening their doors. The tradition is marked by the consumption of beer dyed green, bringing the spirit of Irish festivities to campus life with a distinctive RedHawk flair.
7. Dragon Day – Cornell University
An artistic highlight at Cornell University is Dragon Day, a century-old tradition where first-year architecture students design and parade a giant dragon across campus. Rivalry adds spice to the event, as engineering students often attempt to derail the dragon’s journey. Symbolizing the clash between the practical and the fanciful, Dragon Day exemplifies the creativity and innovation that are the lifeblood of Cornell’s campus culture.
8. The Game Ball Run – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
To kick off the annual football game against Union College, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s ROTC cadets participate in the Game Ball Run. The cadets run nearly 40 miles to deliver the game ball from their campus in Troy, NY, to the game site, often in Schenectady. Capturing the spirit of determination and endurance, this tradition dates back to 1978 and continues to forge a strong bond among participants, the ROTC program, and the broader college community.