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By Jessica Bagby, Class of 2013
As I look back on my past three years in the McConnell Scholars Program, there are many aspects of being a Scholar that I have definitely taken for granted. Distinguished guest speakers, full scholarships, discussions of literature, and the prestigious title seem to take the forefront of the glamorous side of being Scholar. Yet, this week while studying for an upcoming quiz, I finally took note of an aspect of being a Scholar that we tend to forget and one that fails to be recognized–the Weber Lounge.
The Weber Lounge is a part of ever Scholar’s weekly, if not daily, life. It is our quiet place, place of study, retreat, and for many commuter students, our home on campus. As aforementioned, I spent over four hours in the Weber Lounge this week preparing for a quiz and it was at this moment that I realized how fortunate we truly are. Unlike my fellow University of Louisville students, I did not have to battle for a spot in the library or worry about encountering people who would be a distraction. I was able to sit with my books and notebook and retreat away from the rest of campus in a place that I am so lucky to have.
Let’s not forget that the Weber Lounge is also a great social place as well. At any given moment, Scholars from every class and McConnell Center staff can be seen walking in and out. It is a great way to get to know your fellow Scholars and build bonds with the faculty within the program. Some of my fondest memories of college have come from the spontaneous conversations, debates, and heart-to-hearts that have developed within those four walls. It is even a place to have lunch when the Student Activities Center is too loud and crowded or you simply do not want to eat by yourself on campus.
I know I probably sound like that nostalgic senior who is reading too deeply into every aspect of their college life, but I can truly say that the Weber Lounge is one of the best parts of being a McConnell Scholar. It is an aspect that many of us have taken for granted yet it is also one that I am forever grateful for. As I embark on the end of my college career, I hope to look for the little things that make this scholarship program and the University of Louisville such an amazing community to be a part of.
Jessica Bagby, of Elizabethtown, is a senior McConnell Scholar at the University of Louisville. She is majoring in elementary education with a minor in political science.