College is hard. The arduous tests, demanding load of schoolwork and countless hours spent studying could weigh heavily on the average college student.
But this year, University students found unique ways to cope with the woes of college life.
Some students indulged in their favorite role-playing games.
In January, The Daily Reveille delved into the lives of fervent players of the recently released RPG “Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim,” praising its expansive landscape and endless gameplay options.
Other students like Ryan Hoppens opted for the more traditional RPG game “Dungeons & Dragons.”
“It goes beyond most games do,” Hoppens said in March. Venturing into unique nightlife alternatives became a trend among University students as well.
In March, The Daily Reveille explored local destinations and the students who frequented them.
Sports administration junior counted local reggae dance hall Club Culture among her favorite nightlife hotspots and said the club reminded her of her home in Jamaica.
“Most of the time, it feels like we are back at home – not in Baton Rouge, where we don’t know most of these songs,” Hall said.
A few national trends captured the attention of other students at the University.
Paranormal activity swept through campus in March, as students posted pictures of freestanding broomsticks on Facebook.
Sharifeh Hamideh, psychology freshman, was mystified. “I was kind of freaked out, but I didn’t think it was real,” Hamideh said.
In February, students recalled their attempts at the cinnamon challenge, which dared participants to swallow a tablespoon of the seemingly innocuous spice without vomiting, spiting, or inhaling the powder.
“I was coughing everywhere, with cinnamon clouds coming out of my throat,” Justin Efferson, communication studies junior, said.
Other students found clever ways to lounge between classes.
Erik Scharff, graphic design sophomore, explicitly proclaimed his love for outdoors and hanging in his hammock during the cool spring breeze to The Daily Reveille this month. He urged other students to do the same.
“When it’s cool outside and beautiful – be outside and enjoy yourself.” He said. “And that’s what I’m doing in my hammock.”
 
—- Contact David Jones at [email protected]