Whether one is a creationist or an evolutionist, both sides agree that things get better over time, at least when it comes to people and how they do things. All it really takes is some simple observation to see where things could or should be improved. I want to challenge students to take notice of the situation here at the U, and think for themselves about what things should change so the future student body can enjoy the things the current student body didn’t have — after all, it’s the finer things in life that make it all the better.
For example, the flex dollar program, which replaced the transfer meal program, works very well at the U, allowing students to choose whatever they want at almost any location on campus. But there is a problem: It doesn’t work at every location. It is possible to use flex dollars in the Union food court, but take just a few steps away to the concessions counter at the bowling alley, and suddenly it’s no deal. Convenience is a large part of modern American culture, and at a for-profit university that can compete with the upper tier of public universities, this should be fundamental in how they conduct business. Is it an absolute deal breaker for new students? Absolutely not, but it’s the small things that often make the experience, and more options ultimately means more sales.
On a related note, the re-designed meal plans that were initiated in the beginning of this semester could also use some fixing. Long gone are the golden days of the unlimited meal plans, which were at a comparable price to that of the 21 which replaced it. In an age where dieting is in fashion and people are tirelessly searching for ways to better their health, the unlimited meal plan was the shining beacon on the hill for those who choose to eat smaller meals more often … or those who eat larger meals more often. Ultimately, it was the salvation of a large body of students, but now it lives only in legend, fondly remembered by those who have been here long enough to recall the memory. This seems like another area that the U can improve, and I doubt I’m alone when I say bring back the unlimited meal plan — we pay enough.
Thirdly, the bike lanes are for bikes, in case you have difficulty reading the signs. These bike lanes are not here to inconvenience anyone. In fact, they are there to save people a pricey trip to the ER. It’s very fun to go very fast on two wheels, and all too often those cyclers who do not use the bike lane still retain the bike lane speed, which is a problem when there are dozens of people weaving to and fro during the peak class times. Clearly marking the lanes, brighter lane lines in areas such as Fort Douglas and a more safety-conscious student population can prevent those collision accidents that most people on campus have probably seen at least once — they aren’t pretty.
Lastly, improvement only comes when people take notice. Talk to leaders and voice your opinion. It’s good for the students and it’s good for business.