Being so far away from the center of campus and the rest of human existence, Woodruff South is commonly known as the oldest and worst residence hall on campus. When I tell people where I live, I kind of feel like I've survived some sort of zombie apocalypse. It all starts with "Oh, you live in Woodies? I'm sorry."
So, other than hearing this statement often, what else do us Woodruff South residents have to put up with on a daily basis?
1. A Death Trap of an Elevator!
Ah, so many things can be said about this elevator. First off, who doesn't love hearing that gear-grinding noise every time it stops on a floor? Personally, I take the elevator to add a little thrill to my day. I never know if I'll get stuck or actually make it to my floor. The suspense kills me every time. Second, in addition to inconsistent service, this elevator has become a landmark for fallen liquids. Vomit, laundry detergent, milk, Gatorade, bleach—you name it and it has once been on the floor of the Woodruff South elevator.
2. Ants Everywhere!
If you live in Woodies and you don't have Raid Ant Killer, then I don't know what you're doing with your life. No matter where you go, they will always find you. When in doubt, spray it out!
3. Experiencing the Tundra and the Desert on the Same Day
At any given time, your room is hot as hell or freezing, regardless of whether or not the AC/heating unit is on. Don't you love it when the heater blows out cold air when it's freezing outside? On top of that, your lounge can't make up its mind either. You'll either find yourself in there sweating with shorts or with your comforter all bundled up. Yet another surprise to add to your day!
4. Having to Pee While Your Suitemate is in the Shower
It's 7:40 a.m. and three out of the four of you have class at 8, so the bathroom and sink areas are going to be a little busy. You're all running tight on time when suddenly you realize you have to pee so badly! It's just so unfortunate for you, because your suitemate just got into the shower. You are stuck between waiting and possibly being late for class. You reflect on the past and wish you had gotten closer to them so you could go in there while they were showering, but it is too late for that and you leave for class with a full bladder.
5. Fire Evacuations, a.k.a. Freshman Experience
Woodruff South, unlike most residence halls, does not offer a Freshman Experience program. Instead, the higher ups have implemented a new program to unite the freshmen living here. Some may call them "emergency evacuations" but I like to call them "freezing my ass off at 4:30 a.m. without my glasses." When I hear the alarm go off, I get so excited! I simply can't wait to bond with my fellow residents at early hours of the morning and, of course, feel the cold air touch my skin! That's not even the best part. The best part of this program is at the end, when we all get to use our beloved, reliable elevator to get back to our rooms.
At the end of the day, we really aren't too salty. After all, our dorms are bigger than any of the other dorms! That's right, we get a full 6.25 square feet more than everyone else! If that's not worth celebrating, then I don't know what is.
