I hear much of how Ball State University is trying to find ways to get upperclassmen to stay on campus rather than finding alternative places to live.
There is a solution. First of all, administrators could find ways to impress freshmen students during their first year. One way they could do this would be by offering better living conditions in the residence halls. Residence halls such as LaFollette have been around for many years and are not as up to date with today's advanced technology. Improving the technology would show a genuine interest in retaining students on campus throughout their college years.
With school beginning in the late summer, temperatures are still high. Living with these high, unbearable temperatures affects everyone's day in many different ways. First, a student needs a full night of sleep. With such unbearable heat, this is almost impossible. After tossing and turning most of the night then getting up early for class, some students feel practically delirious the rest of the day. Along with sleeping, studying is also very difficult. Study lounges in LaFollette are also very hot. In the stifling heat it is difficult to concentrate and retain the information we so desperately need to pass our classes. Rest rooms are insufferable as well. The temperatures of these facilities are incredibly ridiculous, even when numerous fans are being used. The unreasonable temperatures in the dorm areas - followed by air-conditioned classrooms - are a recipe for colds and other sicknesses. This, in turn, leads to missed class time. As we all know, missing a day of class in college can be devastating for that term, often leading to failed classes. Although I sympathize with people who have allergies or disabilities, I feel it is unfair that they are given eligibility for air conditioning while those of us who are not suffering from any health issues have to suffer. Paying so much to live in a residence hall should also contribute to a comfortable environment.
Although I would love to entertain the idea of staying on campus throughout my college years here at Ball State, I must admit that I currently plan to seek alternative living arrangements when I am eligible - unless the conditions improve by the time I have that option.
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