Here at Goshen College, we have had some notable pranks to say the least. I propose we take it up a notch, I mean, we owe the past pranksters that much — with a lineup of historic goofs, we have big shoes to fill.
The Cow Series: Legend has it, a group of ambitious students once led a cow into the Science Building as well as Kulp residence hall, banking on the classic trick of animals refusing to go down stairs. The theory seemed sound, but they quickly ran into some problems. Cows also aren’t particularly keen on going upstairs. The group spent more time convincing the confused bovine to ascend than anyone spent laughing. On top of that, cows are more than stubborn about going back down — it’s physically impossible for them to do it normally. So, that lucky cow got a trip out the window of the second flood of the Science Building.
The Parking Fine: One time, I heard that some people took apart a Volkswagen Beetle piece by piece, took it into the Good Library, and reassembled it in the lobby … So, when the librarians came in the next morning there was a car waiting for them.
For Whom The Bell Tolls: At some point during GC’s history, some students accessed the controls to the Union bell tower. They figured out how to play a tape through the bell system — their choice of music was Pink Floyd, according to some. There are also rumors that the volume control was adjusted to an unnecessarily high level. However, no one seems to know exactly where the controls are for the bell tower anymore.
Now, here’s how we can do it right. If you’re aspiring to become the Michelangelo of mischievousness, consider these refined prank ideas:
Reverse Vending Machine: Set up a vending machine full of cash of various amounts, leaving students baffled when it demands snacks in exchange.
Goose Parade: Sneak a few ultra-realistic plastic geese onto campus lawns. Add a few party hats. Bonus points if you create a fake club called the Goshen Goose Appreciation Society and host a public “Goose Gala.”
Elevator Escape Room: Transform the dorm elevator into a budget friendly escape room using cryptic clues, dollar store cobwebs and a laminated photo of a stoic campus president for extra intrigue.
Surprise Chapel Guest: Convince students that a famous celebrity is making a guest appearance. Then dramatically pull back the curtain to reveal Brooke Lemmon, your friendly director of special education, dressed as Taylor Swift. Guitar optional, blond wig required.
