By Cadence Cascarelli, Photography Intern
While we all enjoy clubs and extracurricular activities, we should not forget the little things that happen. Although major events often take center stage in our busy lives, it’s the smaller moments that quietly shape our daily lives. Each photo in this article was taken on our beautiful Hardin Valley campus and captures those meaningful, everyday experiences, taking a peek into the little things we often overlook. I hope you enjoy.
Walking to Classes
Most people walking to class may find it tedious, as a lot of us are simply trying to get from point A to point B without really thinking about what’s in between. However, if you look around and notice the big blue sky, the lovely birds in the air, and the green grass in the quad, your mundane walk can turn into a leisurely stroll as you move through your surroundings. Sometimes, all it takes is a shift in perspective to transform the ordinary into a meaningful memory.
Lunchroom
You might look at the lunchroom and think about how loud and rowdy it is. All the noise and boisterousness may feel overwhelming to some people, but if you look around, you’ll see that it is actually a bustling center of social interaction. Friends gather to share stories, laughter, and support during their busy school day. In many ways, the lunchroom becomes a place where friendships grow and memories are made.
Other Little Things Between Classes
Some students prefer clubs while others prefer smaller groups, such as one-on-one visits. Depending on the time of day, you can find many small groups of two or three people around campus between classes. Whether it’s a Bible study, a study date, or just two friends hanging out, you can find meaningful experiences all throughout campus. These small moments of connection help create a sense of belonging and community throughout the school.
StudyingÂ
When students think about studying, they often think of putting forth a lot of hard work just to get a C. However, if they remember the importance of studying and how much it can help develop real-world skills and prepare them for their future careers, it could increase their passion for learning. By focusing on the long-term benefits rather than short-term challenges, students can begin to see studying in a more positive light. In the end, studying is not just about grades, but about building a foundation for future success.
The Bookstore
When you look at the bookstore, all you might see is how much money is being spent on rows and rows of books and computers. But if you stop and look, you’ll see all the interesting things that come with the store. The cuteness of the stuffed animals, the knowledge at your fingertips, and even the kindness of the employees are enough reasons to go in and enjoy yourself. Sometimes, all it takes is a change in perspective to discover something truly worthwhile.
The Newsroom
And finally, the pièce de résistance of the overlooked experiences: the newsroom. Many students don’t realize how much work goes into the finished product of Imaginary Gardens and the daily effort behind each story. From the editors to the interns, we all do our part to make our stories as entertaining and interesting as possible while remaining true to the facts. The newsroom is more than just a class or a club; it is a place where dedication, teamwork, and passion come together to inform and inspire our college.
Conclusion
I hope this has helped you look at our college in a new light. It’s easy to become so familiar with a place that we overlook what makes it special. Always remember not to miss the forest for the trees—no matter how well you think you know a place, there is always something new to discover when you take the time to see it from a different perspective.
