On Otterbein’s campus, things seem to be slightly confusing.
With a name like Otterbein, the assumed mascot would most likely be an otter, though upon entering many of the school’s offices, one would be greeted by a chipper cardinal who goes by the name of Cardy. Judging by the recent wave of Otterfever, students are a bit unwelcoming of this feathered friend and are all too eager to reclaim our beloved water-dwelling mammal. The pleas of those infected are hard to ignore, and they have plagued the campus with “Otterfriendly” nicknames.
If you or anyone you know has referred to any place on campus as an “Otterplace,” seek help immediately, or, for those less keen to Cardy, check out our list of Otterplaces — noteworthy spots on campus where freshmen can either hang out or find important resources.
The OtterCenter — The Campus Center, located (you guessed it) in the center of campus. This is where the Otterboys and Ottergirls from Davis to DK and even some commuters gather to play Ottergames, eat Otterfood and buy Otterbooks.
OtterTech — The technical center, located in the front of the Campus (er, Otter) Center. Here, you can scan your laptop for those pesky viruses, update your software and even learn all about that dusty old Ethernet cord you have.
The OtterPond — That giant puddle of water behind the OtterCenter left behind from last year’s blizzard. While a family of ducks seems to currently inhabit our OtterPond, rest assured our space is claimed. With the amount of traffic that could pass through the OtterCenter’s backyard, they should probably build a bridge. Then again, bridges aren’t an Otterbein specialty.
The OtterGym — The Rike Center, located in the northwest corner of campus next to the tennis and baseball fields. Otters, like most others, enjoy a good workout every once in a while, and when the OtterPond gets to be a bit dull, this is the place to be. Equipped with everything from ellipticals to electronics, the OtterGym has everything you need to get fit without missing an episode of “Jersey Shore.”
The Otterbrary — A short walk from the OtterCenter, across the street from Towers. Just as otters need to fuel their slippery bods, they need some mental nourishment as well, and at the Otterbrary they are sure to find it. With resources like the math lab and the writing center, even the nerdiest of otters can get their fix of knowledge.
The OtterStore — Either of two places: the shop at the Otter Den or the bookstore. Regardless of whether you need a math textbook or a pint of Ben & Jerry’s, chances are you’ll be waiting for a while, so grab an Otterseat and take an Otterbreak.
The OtterPark — Alum Creek Park, located on West Main Street behind Dunlap-King. Sometimes even otters need a little playtime, and with the number of them found on a daily basis, they certainly know that all work and no play can make for some very dull pups. So take a break from those Otterbooks and grab a swing.
Should you find yourself with Otterfever, there isn’t very much help available, so you might as well hop onto your OtterBike and explore these great Otterplaces throughout campus. Who knows, you might have a great Ottertime.
