WHAT’S “IN” AND “OUT” ON CAMPUS

By Camille Martin ‘24

The McEwen Ice Cream Setup

To be honest, I was a little surprised by these results, so I took it upon myself to put this in both categories. Hear me out. The new McEwen ice cream setup has many positive attributes, complete with a very kind scooper-topping-hotfudge-man, numerous flavors, and an array of toppings from chocolate chips to sprinkles, crushed Oreos, and M&M’s. Who wouldn’t be thrilled by the prospect of so many delicious options and combinations? However, this “full-service” setup, so to speak, still leaves some things to be desired. For more, see the “out” category.

Pub nights

Rumor has it the Little Pub is the new Rok. Are you tired of paying $10+ for an Uber down the hill? Head over to Pub instead! It’s student-run, anyone can get in, and I hear they even take cards now at the bar (for those over 21)! Not only is Pub a great place to spend time with your friends and fellow students, but it’s conveniently located right next to Diner if you’re looking for a bite to eat after a long night out.

iPads

This was a super tight poll, but the “ins” have it! You heard it here, being an iPad adult is cool! Honestly, though, I often find myself clicking my laptop keys in a nearly silent classroom, as everyone jots down notes with an Apple Pencil and iPad. I suppose their lightness and multi-use capabilities make them ideal for note taking, homework, and a variety of tasks beyond just fueling your parents’ Candy Crush addiction.

Interacting on Martin’s Way

This one was a toss-up, but the “ins” have it. The days of keeping your head down and staring at your shoes on your walk to class are over. If you see someone you know on your way to class, just say “hi!” You never know what kind of day someone is having, and your greeting that takes half a second might brighten it even the slightest bit. Besides, walks from one side of campus to the other can be long and cold during these winter months, so why not add a little socialization to spice up your journey?

Winter/cold weather

Punxsutawney Phil may have predicted six more weeks of winter, but walking across campus, slipping and sliding every which way is getting a little old. I know we can’t control the weather but the COVID-19 task force stated that “warm weather is headed our way,” and I’ll take that over a groundhog’s prediction any day.

Dining hall dates

Nobody wants to be on a date at a little circle table in Commons and have an entire sports team, post-practice, sit down one table over. Without a doubt, you will see every person you’ve ever interacted with at Hamilton, and if you’re especially lucky, your whole friend group will walk by, giggle, make jokes, and raise their eyebrows at you. I know dining hall dates are super convenient, but I promise there are better options that are just as cost-effective. Just check out our fall issue’s date night article by Emma DiGiacomo for ideas!

North lot

This one is so painfully out, and certainly very much out of everyone’s way. Imagine having to go to battle every day for a parking spot only to be banished to North Lot, forced to make the ~slightly~ uphill trek to wherever you live. It’s -10˚ outside, the RealFeel is -35˚, and you have a ten-minute walk ahead of you. No thank you.