1. Bikers.
Nothing accompanies a leisurely stroll better than a repetitive “On your left!” and a bone chilling fear that you could be run over at any moment and never see it coming.
2. Skateboarders/longboarders.
Along the same notion of paralyzing fear, is the abounding rush of a skateboard or longboard approaching from some unidentifiable direction and quickly approaching. Best strategy is to not move an inch, they will see you long before you see them.
3. Smushed ice-cream cones.
One of the many lovely characteristics of the UMass student body is their insatiable desire to smash Berk ice-cream cones onto the pavement or into their buddy’s window in one of the towers.
4. People on their phones.
Another aspect of our generation which continually leaves a level of human interaction to be desired.
5. Food made unidentifiable by rain.
It looks like someone puked up breakfast, but it is most likely some dropped Grab-n-Go.
6. Squirrels – of varying sizes, color, and libedo.
Not only are our squirrels on steroids, but apparently mating season is every season.
7. Wind. And lots of it.
Just walk past the library with an umbrella and a hat on what the local weather station will call a mildly breezy day. You’ll see.
8. That same hot guy/girl that you seem to walk past everyday.
There they are, everyday on the same route to class. No matter how you chose to dress today.
9. Freshmen year TA.
The one that saw you balance your first year of college and Friday morning discussion sections. Look away and walk fast.
10. Dog poop.
No explanation necessary, but thank you to all the loving dog owners that inhabit the Amherst area and choose to strut their pooches on our campus.