by Logan Pedersen

Are you looking to get off campus for a break from your studies? Do you enjoy exploring new areas of Corvallis? Then look no further than a beautiful hike up to the tallest peak in the Oregon Coastal Range. Grab a group of friends and drive over to this scenic sight known as Mary’s Peak.

Only 45 minutes from the Oregon State campus, this destination is one you won’t want to miss. At an elevation of 4,097 feet, the summit of Mary’s Peak provides a stunning view. Whether you’re there during the day, at dawn, or sunset, this point will reveal to you the cities and suburbs of the Willamette Valley, the Cascade Range, and even the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. The hiking trail is a total of 6.2 miles in length, but if you don’t feel like a hike then you can always drive straight to the top. So on the next sunny day when you’re thinking of getting away, swing up to Mary’s Peak for an incredible relaxing escape from society and enjoy the nature that lies just outside of Corvallis.

Last summer I had the opportunity to study abroad in London with some of my fellow CLA classmates. Since spring has arrived, my nostalgia has hit an all time high. Because of this, I thought now would be a great time to share my favorite parts of the trip. While I have countless favorites, I’ll limit myself to three.

1. The AMAZING THEATER Scene

When people ask, “what was your favorite part of London?” the theater is my first answer. It’s unlike anything I had previously experienced. I stood (quite excitedly I might add) through a performance of Julius Caesar in Shakespeare’s Globe and sat two feet away from Martin Freeman playing the malicious Richard III. I also saw the Curious Incident of the Dog in Nighttime, and I swear I’ve never seen anything so innovative and transcendent. If there’s one thing you should be doing in London (besides sitting in pubs and practicing your horrible British accent) it’s seeing plays.

2. Spending Hours in MUSEUMS

From ancient worlds, to natural history, and modern art, London has got you covered. There are so many incredible museums in London that span a wide variety of subjects; it’s difficult to not spend your entire afternoon lost in their bowels. I loved that we could discuss a painting from 1553 in class and then hop on the Tube to go see it in person. This is what’s so great about London; it’s a perfect blend of old and new.

3. The PEOPLE

What is that clichéd quote again? The place is only as good as the people? Well, I think there’s some truth to this for a couple of reasons. First, it was a comfort to have people from a familiar setting. Second, I learned so much about myself through the people with me. In many ways, they were what made the experience a great one. I wouldn’t have loved London so much if I hadn’t been with other College of Liberal Arts students. After all, it’s more fun to explore a city with new found friends!

Overall, studying abroad in London has been the highlight of my college career so far. Because of this trip, I’ve added the International Degree and I’m packing my bags for France this summer. I cannot stress how beneficial study abroad has been to my education and personal growth. If you have the opportunity to study abroad, I highly recommend you take it. Currently, the College of Liberal Arts is accepting applications for the 2015 London trip. This year, one of the professors leading the trip will be Michelle Inderbitzin who teaches Inside-Out: Prison Exchange Program at Oregon State. Professor Inderbitzin, like study abroad, will expand your worldview immensely (believe me, I know from experience). Her London course will focus on the similarities and differences between the UK’s correctional system and the United States correctional system. So if red telephone booths and afternoon tea don’t interest you (seriously? who’s not excited about tea?) then spending time with one of the best professors at OSU should.

If you would like additional information about the trip to London this summer, follow this link.

 
Bon Voyage!

by McKenzie Ross

by Jon Bosworth

Fresh cut grass, vibrant blooming flowers, sun soaked students, and an indescribable buzz on campus; that’s Oregon State University in the spring. You see, there’s no better place to be in the spring than Corvallis, Oregon. I don’t know if it’s the anticipation of sun built up over several rainy months, the natural beauty offered by the Willamette Valley, or all of the events and activities associated with springtime, but it’s an amazing time of the year. Coupled with the beauty and warmth provided by the weather, comes a host of activities and events on and off campus to keep you busy throughout the term.

On campus there are a ton of events and festivals throughout the spring, beginning with Mom’s Weekend in early-May and culminating with commencement in mid-June. In addition to these events there is the ever-popular Dam Jam, where MUPC (the Memorial Union Programming Council) invites a well-known musical artist to play a huge concert in the quad! Check out the OSU Calendar for more events: http://calendar.oregonstate.edu

Outside of Oregon State is the place to fully enjoy the spring. Corvallis is the place to be if you enjoy the outdoors, there are numerous hiking, biking, and running trails as well as breathtaking destinations close to town. Some of my favorite places to hike are Bald Hill, which is a quick walk from campus, Chip Ross Park, and Mary’s Peak. Mary’s Peak is the highest point in the coastal range and offers breathtaking views of both the Willamette Valley and the coast after an enjoyable hike. If outdoor activities aren’t your thing, there are great restaurants, coffee shops, and clothing stores downtown that can be a part of your day after visiting the Corvallis Farmers’ Market. On Wednesday and Saturday mornings be sure to go down to 1st street and take advantage of fresh produce and flowers, unique art and much more at the Corvallis Farmers’ Market. No matter what your interest is, I guarantee that Corvallis’ springtime whether will be perfect for you!

Don’t get discouraged if the weather seems to be playing with you, it probably is. Just trust me, a morning that starts out like this,

can quickly turn to this: