Fourth year has finally arrived! In May, I will finally be graduating, I will finally get to walk the Lawn and I will receive the "Honor of honors." Four years at one of the premier public universities in the country. So many memories. Looking back, I would say that four things capture my experience here at the University of Virginia: political participation, intellectual stimulation, spiritual realization . . . and construction.
Seriously though, when did the University become the perpetual-buildingerecto-constructogon? Not that I have anything against buildings. I love buildings. But building buildings costs cold hard cash. If our state funding keeps going down, why do buildings keep going up? Sure, classrooms in Cabell Hall were dated, but I don't think students expect La-Z-Boy recliner treatment. So, what was the real impetus for the South Lawn project (which is very picturesque, I might add)? Sure, it feels right. And sure, it honors Thomas Jefferson, that noble man. But the project also houses both the religious studies and politics departments though, and, well, did TJ not originate the idea of separation of church and state? Hmm - ironic enough to cause pause.
But, seriously, I am no political activist guy. I really just want my walkway back - the path connecting Newcomb and Clemons. Why must I take a trek through foreign lands to get from eating to studying? I know TJ was big on walking, but even he would have treasured this time-saving shortcut. Very seriously, University higher-ups, down with the partition? Before graduation? Please?
Nick Carter\nCLAS IV
Read More
EDITORIAL: Pedestrian safety is an institutional imperative
By Editorial Board | YesterdayAmid a national crisis of pedestrian safety, Charlottesville and the University are also struggling to properly maintain pedestrian safety.
YOUNIS: The danger of dehumanizing language
By Ayat Younis | 3 days agoThe administration’s failure to condemn blatant discrimination exacerbates an impossible situation, fostering an atmosphere that misinterprets pro-Palestinian sentiments as support of terrorism.
BRUNMAN: U.Va. administration, protect your Jewish students
By Wylie Brunman | 3 days agoWhen antisemitism is increasingly prevalent on Grounds and when Jewish students feel unsafe and unprotected, it is clear that the University must take active action to safeguard Jewish students.
