(Yes, we already used that headline, but it’s just so perfect.)
West Virginia University students flooded back into town over the weekend and classes begin today.
Having the students back is bittersweet.
On the one hand, it’s amazing to see how Morgantown comes alive when the students are in town. Our sleepy little almost-city suddenly becomes the beating heart of north-central West Virginia. The infusion of young blood brings High Street back to life and reminds us how — and why — we are able to lay claim to a thriving downtown. After the pandemic kept students away last year, it feels good to have their excitement and vibrancy back.
On the other hand — the traffic. Oh, the traffic. Say goodbye to your 15-minute-or-less commute. Hello, bumper-to-bumper traffic at rush hour. Some of these kids coming in from the flatlands have no idea how to drive on hills or curvy roads, so remember your defensive driving lessons.
On the other, other hand, with the university back in session, it means football season is just on the horizon, with the promise of basketball to get us through the winter. And nothing brings West Virginians together quite like our simultaneous pride in and irritation with our Mountaineers.
So a special welcome to the classes of 2024 and 2025, many of whom are coming to Morgantown for the first time.
To all the other WVU students: Welcome back.
