Longwood students were so excited to finally get to walk into and utilize the Upchurch University Center in October 2018. It's an awesome building that provides students with so many opportunities. However, with Upchurch's opening, Lancers had to say goodbye to our beloved Stu; the building is still there, but it isn't the same. There are things that I love and appreciate about both places, but I secretly wish I could have both.
Upperclassmen kind of "grew up" with the Stu. It's weird walking by Lankford on my way to class without seeing people walk in and out. Yes, there are still some offices and events that happen in Lankford, but it isn't the same. I'm sure we all have some memories attached to this building, and it's sad for the building to kind of just sit there. They have plans for the building, but I wish it didn't feel so different walking on Brock Commons. It's like the end of an era!
Upchurch's food options are amazing, but I miss Einstein's Bagels. The bottom of the Stu was often pretty warm temperature-wise, but there would always be a line at Einstein's because it was the best! The iced lattes and toasted sandwiches were my favorite. I love that we have Starbucks now, but I think it would've been great to still have Einstein's as an option. Yes, they're somewhat similar (and so is Au Bon Pain), but it was really hard saying goodbye to this Lancer favorite. I see friends from other colleges posting their Einstein's order on Instagram and I get a little sad.
Upchurch is the upgrade that Longwood students deserve. The Stu was amazing, but Upchurch offers students and faculty more opportunities in many ways. Upchurch is huge and gave different offices and organizations, like Lancer Productions and SGA, more space to grow and do more. The food options make us all happy. There is SO much space in the building, I haven't even utilized all the available rooms and spaces. The Stu was a great place, but it did have an old-time feel, so I'm not complaining about what Upchurch has to offer.
I can't really pick a favorite. I love both buildings for different reasons. I'm glad that as a junior, I am lucky enough to have had the Stu for half of my time here and Upchurch for the last half of my undergraduate. Upchurch was worth the wait, but the old Stu will always have a spot in my heart.
