Battleship

Of all the things Ohio State has to offer, I’ve found that some of the most interesting opportunities are the least advertised. When I originally toured the campus, they of course broadcasted the beauty of the oval, the accessibility of the professors, and of course, the originals that define this campus (Mirror Lake Jump, The Shoe, etc.).

However, after all these tired adjectives and sweeping descriptions, I have discovered the only way to truly appreciate Ohio State is to experience it. I’m not talking about experiencing all the things they talk about, but about experiencing things they never even mention.

One of my housemates suggested “Battleship” at the RPAC. The game is simple and probably more straightforward than you would think. Sink the other team’s boat. Literally.

There are four to a team: the “attackers” are given three large buckets and the job of dumping water in the opposing team’s canoe. The fourth teammate is the designated “bailer” or “defender,” and he or she use a plastic pitcher to bail water from the canoe. Yes, this is real life.

You are not allowed to stand in the canoe or touch other canoes. That being said, it’s pretty much a free for all.  From what I remember there was a lot of screaming, chlorine in my eyes and the realization that I have absolutely no upper body strength.

Needless to say, after four hours of throwing water and trying to balance in a canoe with three other people, I felt as though my limbs might fall off. The next morning upon waking up I realized I was covered in bruises and felt as if a large man had taken a bat to me the night prior. That being said, it was one of the coolest, most original things I have ever done– as well as one of the most unique.

These are the qualities that I look for in opportunities at Ohio State. In my next three or so odd years here I want an experience that is entirely my own. I don’t want one that can be summarized in a 15 minute tour of campus, or one that is the same as 50% of the student body. I want one that involves an act of sheer ridiculousness, i.e. sinking canoes in the RPAC pool.