Dead Day: A UNR Tradition

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USA, Nevada, ?Washoe County, Reno, downtown and Sierra Nevada. (Photo by: Dukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Nestled in the picturesque Sierra Nevada Mountains, the University of Nevada Reno boasts a location that seamlessly combines natural beauty with academic mediocrity. Surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes, this educational institution stands as an oasis of learning amidst the wilderness and tweakers that call Reno home. The campus itself offers breathtaking views, where majestic peaks loom in the distance and tranquil meadows invite contemplation.

While Reno, the city that houses this esteemed university, may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it certainly possesses a unique charm. In a peculiar tradition that blends reverence and whimsy, students at the University of Nevada, Reno partake in a ritual. The sacred “Dead Day”, the night before their final exams. As twilight casts its gentle glow, the air becomes imbued with anticipation. Half-dressed girls carrying empty bottles, start their pilgrimage to show respect to John Mackay.

Amidst the hallowed grounds, the statue of John Mackay stands tall, stoic in his bronze form, serving as a silent witness to the collective hopes and dreams of the student body. In an act, both curious and endearing, empty bottles of Smirnoff and Casamigos find their place at the feet of this esteemed figure.

This unconventional offering is a testament to the students’ unwavering determination to seek fortune and favor. It is a nod to the audacity of youth. This a playful reminder that amidst the rigorous pursuit of knowledge, anyone, and I mean anyone, can get a F*CKING communications degree.

While some may scoff at this quirky tradition, it symbolizes the indomitable spirit of the University of Nevada, Reno’s students—a student body filled with boozers and athletes.

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