Wearing lab coats to non-lab events “because tradition.”
WEARING LAB COATS TO NON-LAB EVENTS “BECAUSE TRADITION.”
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Remember the unspoken uniform? That slightly stained, perfectly practical lab coat, pulled out not for a chemical reaction or a dissection, but for a departmental lecture, an alumni reception, or even a casual dorm gathering. It wasn't about safety or sterility; it was about "tradition." We'd shrug them on, a curious blend of pride and ironic detachment, an almost absurd sartorial statement proclaiming our affiliation, our dedication, perhaps even our mild eccentricity. These moments, where academic attire transcended its original purpose, became quiet rituals in themselves.
This specific quirk was just one thread in the rich tapestry of our campus life. From the infamous pre-exam screams to the hushed ceremonies of certain societies, our institutions were (and still are) steeped in customs, some beloved, others endured with a knowing glance. Whether it was a club's particular chant, a dorm's annual prank, or a department's oddly specific celebration, these rituals shaped our days, fostered our bonds, and occasionally left us scratching our heads in delightful bewilderment. They were the glue, sometimes sticky, often strange, that bound us together.
For those of us who have walked these hallowed grounds, whether recently or decades ago, these seemingly small, often inexplicable traditions become powerful touchstones. They are the shared memories, the inside jokes, the quiet understanding that unites a diverse community. That lab coat, worn to a non-lab event, wasn't just fabric; it was a symbol of belonging, a testament to the peculiar, wonderful journey we undertook. It was tradition, and in its absurdity, it was ours.