Night Life...

(Note: Not actual image from Bowling Green, or any place remotely accessible.)

As a graduate student, I really haven't placed a priority on my social life. Since you've taken the initiative to embark on post-baccalaureate education, I can guess that bar hopping isn't too high on your list of interests. These things notwithstanding, taking a break from studying, reading, writing, and reading some more can be a necessity. Bowling Green offers a variety of bars most of whom cater to a collegiate crowd. This basically means that on any given night you may find one or two of them offering some sort of "All You Can Drink" special. If you enjoy loud music, mostly belligerent people, and a crowded, smoky room, than these are the nights you should venture out into. Personally, I tend to seek respite from school in other environments.

While Bowling Green is not a mecca of art and culture, we do have fantastic opportunities to watch and/or listen to various talented people in the community, including Western. Our department of theatre and dance works hard throughout both semesters and usually puts on at least two or three shows per semester. We also have the Public Theatre of Kentucky whose company is small, but productions are usually pretty great. Also, the theaters in Nashville provide larger productions with discounted tickets for students.

As you settle into your new home in Bowling Green, you may notice many people discussing Nashville. Nashville is only 45 minutes to an hour away from Western and offers a slew of things to do. The city's selection of bars, dance clubs, restaurants, shopping, art, culture, and music is tempting, accessible, and a relief to those who may feel B.G. is too small. Vanderbilt University, located on the West Side, is a great place to see even more drama, dance, and art. If you like malls, Nashville has four ranging from typical to high-end. Most of the 'fancier' chain restaurants like P.F. Chang's, Ruth's Chris, J. Alexanders, Cheesecake Factory, and Olive Garden are located in Nashville. It's a great city that's relatively safe, affordable, and accessible.

Finally, finding things to do in B.G. is made a lot easier when you're a G.A.. We tend to flock together periodically for dinner and conversation, which makes it easier to cope with homesickness, boredom, or fuzzy eyes (from reading so much). Again, if you're looking for something else that we haven't discussed on here, let us know!