The housing selection process must change

Victoria McGinty, Managing Editor

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.