COLUMN: Traditions come together

tradition (tr-dshn): The act of doing something time and time again, regardless of participants’ willingness to take part in the act.

Let’s face it, our lives are dominated by tradition. No matter which aspect of your life you analyze there is tradition to be found somewhere. However, not all traditions are boring and drab like the yearly visit to your Uncle Horace. We are constantly reliving and reinventing ourselves through tradition, you never know if what was done today may be the tradition of tomorrow.

For instance, who would have thought that a group of college students waving their arms back and forth, followed by pretending to milk a cow, would become such a popular USU tradition: The Scotsman.

This university is full of traditions, and with the exception of waking up early to attend class, there doesn’t seem to be many that are boring and dull. Think of the many traditions at Utah State that you, and many others, allow to shape your days and the planning of your excitement. For instance, if the words “full moon” were to be brought up on this campus the majority of students and faculty would surely think, True Aggie night; a tradition that has obtained statewide legendary status.

The Howl is another tradition that has obtained statewide recognition; whether because it allows the chance to wind up or dress down (very down). Other popular traditions here include: lighting the A atop Old Main, Aggie blue, Homecoming, Mardi Gras, Robins Awards, and A-Day – just to name a few.

In honor of the traditions of USU this entire week is devoted solely to them. Many activities and traditions for students and faculty are available to take part in.

This week, look for these activities: Sweatshirt swap, a tradition where students are allowed to swap any old sweatshirt for a new USU sweatshirt. Copy Ed 2/17/04 what day is sweatshirt swap? On Thursday an older tradition will be resurrected in the Hello Walk, which is the stretch of sidewalk between Old Main and the Business Building where students are encouraged to be social and get to know their peers and those around them. Come say “Hello” and find out more information about USU’s history of traditions.

Other activities throughout the week will include: Aggie Ice Cream and the band “Hercummer;” STAB presents Zoolander, a break-dance competition, and live improv. Saturday, the culminating event is Mardi Gras, right after the men’s basketball game in the Taggart Student Center.

Traditions are only made traditions by those who celebrate them; let’s make this Traditions Week a great one.