Snow days rarely occur in a collegiate environment, but this week it happened twice.
Students and faculty spent their Wednesday digging out vehicles and clearing pathways through more than a foot of snow.
Although night classes still met Wednesday, some people found their travel inhibited. Frustrated students were quick to blame the university and its decision to reopen at 5 p.m. Wednesday.
But in regard to taking time off, at least we got what we did. While macro management of this situation is over, the smaller details now fall into faculty and students' hands ... or, should we say, gloves.
It was an intelligent move for the university to cancel classes Tuesday and Wednesday - and 16 hours of work on behalf of Ball State's grounds crew exemplifies that. Weather conditions Tuesday were inclement at best, where road and sidewalk conditions Wednesday were not conducive to traveling about campus. By mid-afternoon, conditions had improved and campus was in much better shape compared to 12 hours earlier.
Off-campus, though, circumstances were not as favorable. From residence to residence, it was obvious students were having problems clearing snow for travel or just getting out the front door.
The university has an obligation to fulfill, and although safety should be a top priority, education is the institution's primary goal. Cancelling Wednesday night's classes on behalf of professors would cost a week's worth of time for night classes. Canceled class is a luxury for students, but a major problem for professors trying to cover material.
Ultimately, the next few days require understanding and patience from professors and students alike. While conditions improve, faculty must use their best judgement when attempting to commute to campus. It's purely a matter of responsibility, and that extends to students as well.
Although still considered minors in the academic field, college students are capable enough to decide whether or not getting to school is too dangerous. Although main roads are clearing up by the hour, students control of their own decisions and destiny.
As such, professors must be understanding to student problems and concerns that arise as a result of the blizzard. With a little cooperation, students and faculty can overcome the physical barriers left in the blizzard's wake.
Unfortunately, the luxury of canceled classes brings forth consequences multiple feet deep.
Sometimes life - and snow - blows.
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