(CU Independent illustration/Adam Milner)
Smiling faces and healthy bodies abound; Boulder is officially the city with the highest levels of well-being in the nation, according to the 2009 City and State Well-Being Reports released by the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index.
The final report on the poll’s findings began by saying: “Individuals wanting to increase their personal well-being and enjoy the highest quality of life in America might want to consider relocating to Boulder, Colo.”
Boulder’s landmarks and unique locations were cited by students when asked what they liked about Boulder.
“I like Macky Auditorium the best,” said Jennifer Trunk, a senior integrated physiology major. “It is illuminated really cool at night, along with its history.”
Others like to head off-campus for their favorite Boulder spots.
“I like the [Dushanbe] Teahouse myself; that place is cool,” said Russ Pikus, a senior English and film studies double major.
“Pearl Street,” said Austin Dominick, an 18-year-old CSU student and lifelong Boulderite, when asked about her favorite part of Boulder. “People go there just to hang out, its not like you have to buy stuff; along with all the musicians out on the mall … You just can’t be sad on Pearl Street.”
In addition to shopping and food, the scenery strikes residents as a main factor for their happiness.
“The Flatirons are really pretty,” said Tyler Benjamin, a sophomore psychology major.
Benjamin echoes a common sentiment. Many students said they agree that the Flatirons and the CU Campus make Boulder what it is.
Students also cite the political climate and constant cultural movement as a contribution to the mood of the city as well.
“Boulder’s a very interesting place to live,” Benjamin said. “There’s always a cause being fought for around town.”
For many they said the fact that Boulder is active on political issues is important, and so is being physically active.
“People are very active and fit here,” Dominick said.
Some said the beautiful open space around Boulder and on campus are contributors to their need for movement and activity.
“I like playing Frisbee and climbing the Flatirons,” said Brian Plantico, a sophomore business management major.
However, Boulder is not without fault, which some were quick to point out.
“Housing costs are expensive here,” said Ned Muhovich, a CU academic adviser and Denver resident.
Benjamin said he shares similar concerns.
“I think [Boulder] is overpriced,” he said. “Mainly rent, property values and movie theaters are more expensive.”
Nicole Sanders, a sophomore math and pre-education double major, said she agreed with Boulder’s place in the poll, but not without reservation.
“If you are between 20 to 30 years old, it is a fantastic place to live,” Sanders said. “I would not want to raise my children around here, because of all the drinking and drugs on The Hill.”
Despite the reservations of some, many students agree that Boulder is the place to be.
“Times when I needed bus money, people would just give me some,” Dominick said. “People here can be really nice and caring, even if they don’t know you.”
Matthew Ryder is a junior at Fairview High School, who is writing for the CU Independent as part of a high school journalism workshop the CU Independent hosted on Feb. 26 and 27.
Contact CU Independent News Editor Sara Kassabian on behalf of Matthew Ryder at Sara.kassabian@colorado.edu.
2 comments
Yo Matt that was great u are lucky
Great article Matt! You almost make me want to pack by bag, leave my worries on the doorstep, and move to the “sunny side of the street”. Connie