Purple Pride Off the Charts
by Kyle Whitehead
December 28th, 2008
Back in Evanston, I’m often discouraged by the lack of school pride. Northwestern has given so much to me over the last four years. A great education. Lifelong friendships. Timeless life experiences. But around campus the prevailing attitude towards the school is one of apathy.
Not the case in San Antonio. Students and alums from all over the country, of all ages come together to spend a weekend together. Whether it’s a ride in the elevator or a walk down the river, you can’t help but chat with other Wildcats and share your story. You’d think it was a criminal offense to leave the hotel without an article of purple clothing. In a time when my ever negative generation seems to never stop complaining (guilty as charged), it’s truly refreshing to see us forget about it all and revel in our incredible institution.
Yes, I know it’s a football game. But this weekend is so much more than that. It’s a chance for a school that too often gets overlooked to showcase itself. It’s a chance for the young to appreciate all we have and the old to feel young again. It’s a chance to come together and honor a place that has changed all of our lives.
Win or lose, this trip has already been one of the best experiences of my life. I look forward to future bowl trips when I’m the old guy looking to relive my college years. For now though, I’ll continue to enjoy every minute of this one.
Spread far the fame of our fair name. Go Northwestern win that game.
