by Michael Hanrahan
Each campus from CSU is unique for different reasons and Orange is no exception. The campus is smaller than the majority and is home to students studying mostly science and allied health degrees. If you’re a CSU Orange student, you’ll probably relate to these truths…
- Plastic teeth are a form of currency
On most campuses you’ll find that students barter with meal points, chauffeuring and just about anything they can get their hands on. What other campuses don’t use as a trading tool is plastic teeth, which is a hot commodity in Orange. Since dentistry students are only able buy teeth in groups and in set amounts, it becomes necessary to trade with peers. It isn’t uncommon to walk into a room and see several dental students around a table swapping teeth or coating them in layers of nail polish so that they’re adequately prepared for SimLab.
- You find cows and sheep roaming around the campus
CSU in Orange is lucky enough to be surrounded by paddocks, which brings a variety of four legged friends. Seeing the odd sheep or cow grazing next to the dorms, on the oval or even on the University road is not uncommon. You may even find yourself taking selfies with an alpaca on your leisurely walk. Even if you’re not studying a veterinary science degree; you’ll certainly see your fair share of friendly farm animals roaming around.
- You’re studying out in the sun… and surprised about it
In the Colour City of Australia, a day without clouds, wind and a cold snap is an enigma. When these days do come, students will flock to outside tables, grassy patches and Lake Canobolas. You’ll find everyone relaxing in warm patches, reading their study notes.
- You hear the phrase, “It’s going to snow next week”, fortnightly
For new students moving to Orange, one of the most exciting prospects is the likelihood of snow. Between May and October, you’ll hear choirs of students singing the same tune —”The weather report says it’s going to snow this week!” Nothing can describe the feeling of watching 60 students from various backgrounds rushing onto the oval to have a snowball fight.
- Your winter wardrobe far exceeds any summer clothing you have
Summer in Orange is a wondrous sight that usually lasts all of four and a half weeks. After the first two weeks, students gradually begin to model jumpers, jeans and lined boots while neglecting those shorts and singlets brought back from home. It doesn’t ever seem to faze students until the year ends and they have to pack all of their belongings into their cars. And while most students would rather donate their bulky winter jackets, they remember how well their clothing served them through the colder months.
