To anyone younger than 18, the word “homecoming” recalls images of sparkly dresses, suits, cheesy photos and awkward dancing. After high school, however, Homecoming can take on a completely different meaning.

As a freshman at the University, I had no idea there was even a difference between the two.

I figured that I would celebrate Homecoming the same way I had for the past four years. I was pleasantly surprised by what I discovered about Homecoming at UIUC.

College homecoming festivities revolve around the football game on Saturday, as opposed to in high school, where the main even is the dance and the football game is usually just a warm-up.

Unfortunately, there is no dance in a gym during college Homecoming, but for some, this can be quite the relief — none of the uncomfortable date scenarios that we’ve all been through.

The clothes student wear during Homecoming also change drastically from the high school to college years.

High school homecoming is all about the formal dresses for girls, and the matching suit and tie for boys. Finding the perfect outfit can take some people weeks or months; however, in college, the decision of what to wear is somewhat simpler.

Between orange sweatshirts, jeans and block I gear, it’s very easy to choose what to throw on the morning of homecoming at the University.

Alcohol is obviously much more prevalent on college campuses, and drinking throughout the Homecoming weekend, including during some of the main events, can be highly encouraged among peers.

Despite all these differences, there is one definite similarity between high school and University homecomings: the tradition of welcoming alumni back to their alma maters.

The funny thing is that many people, myself included, don’t realize that this is the very idea “Homecoming” was founded upon.

Regardless of whether you are a current student or an alumnus, Homecoming is a tradition that has a special place in the hearts of all the members of the Illini community.

For the freshmen at the University, remember that even though your first Homecoming at Illinois is going to be completely different than what you’ve experienced before, that doesn’t mean you won’t have a fantastic time.

Taylor is a junior in Media. She can be reached at [email protected]