dorm life

 

 

 

            Living in the dorms can have its benefits, for instance you don't have to get up as early to get ready for class, you get to see and meet friends throughout each dorm and knowing that Menlo is a safe campus is outstanding. These are all good foundations for a great campus environment. But then again know ones perfect. Some of the simplest changes and arrangements made on campus can push your buttons.

 

            After speaking to quite a few residents that have been living on campus, they have seen many changes resident advisors have made both good and bad but don't seem to get the chance to come together and make the changes mutually. We all need to follow the rules respectfully which in many cases students do however many students are frustrated with new changes made with out there consent. In one case residents Ali Bickell and Erica Weisfield roommates living in Kratt decorated their room with the intentions of making it seem more homier and comfortable. Just a few posters on the wall and some shawls taped on top of the ceiling they were immediately warned to take them down when each hall went through inspections.

 

In other halls I had heard numerous amounts of complaints from Howards to El Camino to Kratt regarding the water heater, the heater not working at all in the rooms and lights going off at random hours of the night and throughout the day. Another incident was around 10pm on a Sunday night when resident Peri Olson found herself studying in the dark. She called the R.A then was advised to call security. After security came to her room they said they couldn't do anything about it and the problem would be taken care of tomorrow morning. Getting ready in the morning in pitch darkness isn't an easy task. Maintenance did not show up till later that afternoon. With just a switch of a light bulb the problem was fixed. Many students feel that the halls should be equipped with materials such as light bulbs to get the problem fixed as soon as possible. These are just some suggestions students have but haven't made the effort to inform the Resident Advisor.

 

            Some of the complaints students have are hard to grasp due to lack communication as well as making the effort to make a suggestion. Students don't hesitate to inform your RA with a problem. Resolve the problem right away and make sure to be heard. Having more hall meetings wont make things better but keeping a good relationship with your RA by speaking one-on-one may help you create a better and more comfortable experience living at Menlo college.