By Jillian Hammell
Assistant Features Editor
Do not fret, all you hopeless romantics —the season to be charmed is still upon us. Valentine’s Day may be crossed out on this year’s calendar, but that doesn’t mean quality time and attention are forgotten. Bring on the flowers and chocolate because there is still something in the air that keeps students together. Bonaventure couples get creative when planning the perfect on-campus date.
Vinnie Bellardini, a freshman journalism and mass communication major, and Jackie Carey, a freshman education major, met several months ago at Bona’s. They both believe Bonaventure has opportunities for them to grow closer as a couple and take a break from the stressful workday. Their favorite on-campus date is a peaceful walk down the Allegheny River Trail.
“We went for walks when it was fairly cold outside, but the snow added to its beauty,” Bellardini said.
He also said if you continue down the trail past Francis Hall during the winter, a frozen river can be seen through the trees. Alongside the river is a tree trunk that overlooks the beautiful scenery, according to Bellardini.
“It is so pretty,” Carey said. “It is a great spot to sit and enjoy one another’s company.”
Bellardini said he believes when the warmer weather finally hits Olean, he and Carey can explore more of Bonaventure’s stunning wilderness.
Sports and fitness are other ways couples bond at Bonaventure.
Steve Carcaterro, a sophomore psychology major, and Taylor Ramsdell, a sophomore sports studies major, like to head to the gym together.
“Steve is on the soccer team so he motivates me during my workouts,” Ramsdell said. “We have even gone to a few exercise classes together.”
Ramsdell also mentioned their love for Bonaventure’s sporting events.
“We usually go to the basketball games together to support the team and spend time with one another,” she said. “It’s rowdy, but still a fun date.”
Carcaterro said during the Sabres hockey season, the Buffalo natives watch the games together. Afterwards, the couple enjoys a trip to the Skeller for some game-day snacks.
Freshman journalism and mass communication majors Jackie Roberts and Ryan McDonough have weekly “movie mornings.”
“We both watch a good movie before our afternoon class,” McDonough said. “It’s a nice way to spend time together before the school day starts.”
Roberts said the first film they watched together on “movie morning” was the tear-jerking classic “The Notebook.”
McDonough and Roberts also fit in a meal at the Hickey Dining Hall.
“It serves as our five-star restaurant,” he said with a cackle.
At the end of the week, McDonough and Roberts make sure to attend mass.
“There is something special about going to church with someone,” McDonough said. “It is a connection on both a personal and religious level.”
Whether it is a brisk walk on the Allegheny Trail, a Bonnie’s basketball game or a “movie morning,” Valentine’s Day can be every day at Bonaventure.
