After a summer filled with nothing but corn fields, small towns with only one fast-food eatery, a gas station or two, and a small community bank that I call my workplace, I am ready for school again. I suppose most Messiah College students are back at a place much like where they spent their summer, but not me. I am back in the big city of Philadelphia and in my unique community of MCPC.

It’s my second semester here and I anticipate a very different one. Rather than exploring the city with my camera (i.e. photography class) leading the way, I’ll be going it my way. It is a dangerous responsibility, you know. There’s always the temptation to be lazy and stick around the MCPC buildings or Templetown.

I’ve been surprisingly pro-active, thank goodness. After my first few weeks back, I’ve squeezed in as much as I can (weather permitting) and I’ve learned a little too. Just because I’ve done a lot in Philly already doesn’t mean there isn’t more for me to explore, even if it’s in the same place.

My second weekend back, I went to a First Friday I’ll never forget. I bought a neat pair of earrings as a souvenir, since I couldn’t afford any of the art. I went to a Phillies’ game for six bucks. Of course it was standing room only, but it was totally worth it. In the bottom of the seventh inning, the fashionable group of older gentlemen sitting in the box in front of us left early and handed Paul and me their tickets. We watched the last two innings in 50 dollar seats.

I took another tour of the beautiful Magic Gardens after my first Philly cheesesteak at Jim’s Steaks. I know, I know. It’s my second semester here and it’s my first time eating a Philly cheesesteak. I kinda ate the whole thing. (The Philly Student Activities Board is doing a phenomenal job this semester.)

I could go on and on about the things I have done already being back this semester, but I’ll be filling you in all semester. Let’s just say, Philly is a new experience every semester, every weekend, every day, and I’m glad I’m here for the ride.

- Elizabeth