Trystyn Miller
Reporter
At Idaho State University, one of the most bustling weeks on campus is Homecoming Week. During the entire week, students have the opportunity to participate in numerous activities around campus. Though there are events all week, there are a few that stand out from the rest: True Bengal, the Homecoming Parade, and the football game. Many students gather at these events, celebrating their school spirit.
Though I have lived in Pocatello for my entire life, I had never heard of “True Bengal” until the past few years. Yes, I have been a student at the university for multiple years, but I was unfortunately in the dark until recently. So, what makes you a “True Bengal”? Is it walking through campus during the fall, enjoying the changing seasons? Or is it getting locked out of your dorm room and having to call a friend to let you in? According to an old tradition, you are only a “True Bengal” when you kiss someone at the Pillars when the clock strikes 12 during Homecoming Week. It is unknown when this tradition began, but it is one that has stood the test of time. This year, students could be seen holding hands and making their way to the pillars the night before the homecoming game. To some, this may be a silly tradition, but sometimes the cheesiest traditions are the ones that mean the most.
Following True Bengal, the next morning offered a more family friendly activity. Students have been going to the parade for years. According to Amy Steed, “We have been going to the Homecoming parade since my oldest (who is now 19) was four years old.” When I asked Amy about why they are such loyal fans of the parade, she had this to say: “It has been fun to see the parade grow, we really like seeing all of the clubs and different people that are involved with the school. I feel like it brings a lot of excitement to the community and allows us to get involved with the college. I would also say that these last few years people have been even more involved and excited about the homecoming events and the football team.” It is this kind of excitement and involvement that truly makes Idaho State University a great place to be.
After the parade, students, alumni, and members of the community begin to gather at the ICCU Dome in preparation for the big game. Excitement for the game can be felt through the entire stadium, fans taking their seats in anticipation of kickoff. According to Claire Horton, “The homecoming game is usually the most fun game of the season, it feels like that game always has the best crowd and energy. Also, I come to the game for the vibe…and the alcohol.” Attending the game personally, I also found the energy to be moving. So many people showing up to support their school and show Bengal Pride truly sets a good tone for the rest of the game, and the season.
Though Homecoming Week has come to an end, excitement still surrounds campus as we move toward the winter months. There is no doubt that there will be many more exciting events to come.
