As the weather began to heat up, student life at Bellevue College changed dramatically. On Monday, April 20, Bellevue woke up to clear sunny skies, and hot temperatures – something not seen since last fall. In fact, Monday broke high temperature records for the date in Seattle.
Bellevue College students took the opportunity to wear shorts, t-shirts, skirts, and dresses to get away from the heat.
What once were deserted outdoor tables and empty grass fields became gathering spots for students who wished to sit back and relax in the sun. Instructors began bringing their students outside to teach their classes. Many students sat at tables with open notebooks and textbooks studying for classes, reading for fun, or just chatting with friends.
Kim Pancoast said she loves the sun, and had been studying outside for about 30 minutes. She said, “It’s nice to get out, especially after working all day. The sun has really changed my mood.”
Outdoor activities became popular during the day at Bellevue College. Women sunbathed on the grass fields. Musicians played guitars for small audiences while sitting in the shade.
While many relaxed in the warm sun, flying discs came to mind for a few Bellevue College students. A pair of students brought out a flying disc around 12:30 and started playing by the common building with several other Bellevue College students.
One of the flying disc tossers was Kaitie Merker, who studies Japanese at the college. When asked why she was playing, she said,“I started playing [flying disc] because my friends were playing. [Flying disc] is awesome, and it’s a beautiful day out.”
Around 3:30 p.m. the group called it quits and went home, most with smiles on their faces.
As the day ended, the tables emptied as students went home. By Wednesday, the hot spell was over.