It’s natural to stress over one’s last semester of college. Worrying about classes and the many last to come and debating what I would like to do for my graduation photos are what I want to be stressing over. Instead, there is something else on my mind these days. With the housing process just around the corner, I and many other students are stressed.
As a senior, I am worrying about whom I’ll be living with and where I’ll be—two things that should be the least of my worries. For two consecutive years I haven’t known my housing status up until the week I would be moving back in. This year, my nerves are reeling yet again. I believe students should have more input as to their desired housing. While the housing point system is unique, it does not put students’ minds at ease. As a student who’s had unlikely luck with housing and roommates, feeling stressed about housing is the last thing I want on my mind. It is no secret that there are limited options for housing for on-campus students.
Needless to say, the majority of those options for upperclassmen are less than comfortable. The apartments are aging quickly and show that age. As for Ryan Hall, I have loved being here for the last two years and I believe that I should be able to live comfortably there during my last semester. Although, being told “we’ll place you where we can” is ridiculous. Being a full-time student and paying the tuition to grant that title, students should be able to have more control over their desired living situation for the next semester. Additionally, off-campus housing should be permitted. For first and second-year students I understand that living on campus is a good way to get acclimated but, at twenty-two years old, dorms should be a distant memory. Additionally, for students in long-term relationships, they should be able to live together if the circumstances seem ideal. As someone who has been with their significant other for five years now, given the option, I would rather live with my significant other than endure another sixteen weeks of roommate drama.
I loved Mercyhurst and I would be lying if I said I won’t be sad when I graduate in December. Although, given all of the roommate drama and irritation I have experienced with the Residence Life Department during my years here, it has put a damper on my time at the University. Additionally, much of the nonsense I have endured could have been avoided if my concerns and accommodations were properly met however, I have been met with infuriating emails and sour memories. While I have loved my academic endeavors, I will not miss dealing with the housing placement process and I hope this process will improve someday.