Waco Feels Like Home 

It might sound cheesy, but the people in Waco truly are the best people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. People take care of each other here. The idea of loving your neighbor is present in local partnerships, start-ups and non-profits. Just as Baylor has grown, Waco has become an increasingly vibrant city. Now, more than ever, this community is full of people who are invested in the success and happiness of each other.

I’ve had the pleasure of exploring Waco with friends and family for over six years. As a Baylor undergraduate, I found a church home and several non-profits to get involved with. As a Baylor HESA student, I have had the opportunity to continue my involvement in this wonderful community.

As we approach application deadlines and interview placements, I imagine many of you will be planning trips to visit different graduate programs. If you find yourself in Waco, Texas here are just a few of the places where I have spent countless hours laughing and living life with friends:

Common Grounds 

Coffee, music, friendship and great people. What more can you ask for? Common Grounds is located right on the edge of Baylor’s campus, so it’s a pretty easy walk. The coffee shop is open early and closes late, so it’s a perfect study spot for exam weeks.Great coffee aside, Common Grounds is also one of Waco’s best music venues. Concerts in the past have included Ben Rector, All Sons and Daughters, Judah and the Lion, NEEDTOBREATHE and more. Common Grounds is a great place for studying, hanging out with friends and relaxing.

Cameron Park

When you come to Waco, take a moment to explore Cameron Park. The park itself is 416-acres of beautiful hiking trails, fields, and spectacular views. Bring a hammock and a book for a relaxing afternoon. If you’re feeling more active, take a bike ride or a hike through the trails. Grab some friends and grill out one afternoon. The park is such a beautiful addition to the Waco community. Don’t miss out!

The Downtown Farmer’s Market 

The Waco Downtown Farmer’s Market is celebrating five years of community involvement this month! The Farmer’s Market is open on Saturday mornings and brings hundreds of people together for local produce, music and homemade goods. People from all over Waco and Baylor come out with their families to support local businesses and friends.

 

Waco will always be an important part of my story. I found community within a great group of friends, I met my husband here and now I’m enjoying Waco again as a graduate student. As you begin to look at different graduate programs, try to find a place that you can connect to. As for me, Waco feels like home.