What I love about Chapel Hill

Growing up in a city with a population of 300,000, I thought I would always be a city girl. Now with 2 ½ years of southern hospitality and small town living, I have grown to appreciate the unique aspects of Chapel Hill. To me, the town of Chapel Hill is an extension of Carolina’s campus.

With the university founded in 1789, the town developed in order to support the campus. Therefore, Chapel Hill and the campus is a small interwoven community. I love grabbing an ice cream and then walking the streets of Chapel Hill. Growing up in a city, I have always had to drive everywhere. Here, I love being able to grab some breakfast, head to class, attend a basketball game and then do some shopping before heading home without ever getting in a car.

Another unique aspect that makes Chapel Hill special is the sense of community, especially with regards to events. During each home football game in the fall, I always love to see families, students, and even the street decked out in Carolina Blue. Flags are hung all along Franklin Street to support the team. After winning the Miami football game this past fall, fans pretty much created a parade from the stadium to Franklin Street.

Walking down Franklin Street in the spring is also one of my favorite things to do. I often start at the border of campus and Franklin Street where I can see people lying around on the grass and students tossing footballs or frisbees. Next, I come across a lady who often sells flowers on the corner in the spring. Continuing on, I pass shops, restaurants, and of course ice cream… yum! Students and local families all seem to fill the windows of restaurants and stores as I pass by. I guess I am not the only one who likes to enjoy Chapel Hill on a warm sunny day!