Exploring My Past at Indiana State University

Let’s get straight to it—here’s a recap of my recent visit to my former college, Indiana State University. I approached this trip with a mix of nostalgia and curiosity, eager to revisit places that shaped my past.

I arrived on a Wednesday evening and, despite the late hour, felt compelled to wander a bit. However, darkness limited my exploration, so I returned to my hotel for the night.

The following day greeted me with bright sunshine and pleasant warmth. I got ready and made my way to my old university, aiming to address some unfinished business from my time there. Just to clarify, I had no intentions of causing any trouble.

My first stop was George's Cafe, a beloved eatery from my college days. It’s famous for its Wing Dings, which I eagerly ordered with fries. Much to my surprise, both the owner and his assistant recognized me immediately, despite it being over a decade since my last visit. It was heartwarming to reconnect, and I introduced them to my family.

After lunch, I set out to visit my old dorm. Unfortunately, I discovered that Lincoln Quadrangle had been entirely replaced by student parking. In stark contrast, the sorority houses, which once occupied that space, had undergone significant renovations. These upgrades were so impressive that they made the previous dormitories look outdated.

Video: A look back at my college memories and the changes over time.

I continued my exploration of the campus, trying to blend into the background. My Legend of Zelda hoodie, typically a conversation starter, seemed to go unnoticed here. I strolled toward the area that once housed the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, only to find it replaced by Delta Sigma Phi.

Reflecting on the absence of Alpha Tau Omega, I recalled a summer I spent there, during which some fraternity members had been disrespectful to others. It’s likely that their actions led to the chapter's closure.

Afterward, I attempted to enter the BCM House, but it was locked with a keypad. I opted not to pursue it further, preferring to avoid unnecessary questions as a visiting alumnus.

As I wandered back to the Commons area, I passed a game room that had replaced a former lounge. Inside were modern games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, showcasing how much had changed.

I visited several buildings where I had attended classes, but most of the professors I remembered were no longer there. I did find one communication professor, engrossed in a project, who appeared unfazed by my presence as an alumnus.

The Commons area revealed a fountain that had once been a campus centerpiece, now turned off and forlorn. The Cunningham Memorial Library had also transformed significantly, and I was just another face among many, unnoticed in my Zelda hoodie.

The entire campus felt different—new buildings and technology had emerged, making it almost unrecognizable. It was a stark reminder of how much time had passed since I graduated.

Video: A Q&A session reflecting on the changes at Indiana State University.

After four hours of wandering, I felt like a stranger on my own campus. Although I had sought out familiar places, the changes left me feeling both amazed and somewhat disoriented. The campus seemed larger yet smaller, with everything so closely packed together.

Interestingly, my longest walk during this visit was from my hotel to the campus, despite being just a block and a half away.

By the end of the day, as I left the university, I took a moment to reflect. I had come to terms with the memories that shaped me, burying my past experiences and moving forward into the next chapter of my life.

This visit wasn’t just about revisiting old places; it was a journey of personal growth and reflection, a way to close a chapter I had opened out of curiosity.

If you enjoyed this reflection, feel free to leave a message, and I’ll respond. Thank you for reading, and happy writing!