I write as a concerned alumnus regarding possible changes in the upperclassmen selection process for on-campus housing. (Jan. 17 Upperclassmen could be limited by dorm policy. )
There are definitely serious problems that need to be addressed, and this housing crunch is not an issue to be taken lightly - by anyone. In many ways, my story pales in comparison to the serious financial and logistical complications a lottery system could pose to students and Ohio University.
I speak as someone who chose to return to campus her senior year after, we'll say, a less than positive off-campus experience. I came back because I knew it would provide me the environment I needed to finish out my time at OU. If I would have gone through a lottery and Hoover House's selection wasn't structured the way that it was when I graduated, I might have been shut out of a place I knew would treat me well, keep me closer to campus resources and foster a sense of community that I still value today.
I recognize the more pressing hardships that students and the university face now and could face in shifting to a lottery. But I feel we shouldn't lose sight of the other benefits provided by dorm life that simply aren't available anywhere else.
- Jen Herrick, class of 2004 graduate
Rockville, Maryland
17 Archives
Letter to the Editor
