I have always liked to think of myself as an explorer whenever walking around, so when I first arrived on campus in my first year, I was curious about what new things and places I would see and worry about finding everything.
When I first arrived on campus in 2022, I was nervous, to say the least. Like any other student, I was afraid of being so far from home and being late to class on the first day, but then I remembered something my mom did with me and my brothers throughout the years as we attended grade school.
Before the first day of school, when we were younger, we would tour the halls after receiving our schedules to find where our classes would be. We did the same during middle school and high school, so when the time came for me to attend Ferris, I decided to take the first few days to look around campus.
Aside from getting my steps in, I found out which buildings my classes were in and explored the other buildings that were not a part of my major. While I walked through, I eventually figured out how to use these buildings as my “weather Shortcuts.” This means that whenever it gets cold or begins raining outside, instead of soaking my shoes in snow and puddles, I could walk through the buildings and emerge on the other side.
I have used the Business Building as a shortcut during the winter when walking to the Rock Cafe and the Center for Virtual Learning on my way to the library. There is also the connecting hall between Starr and the Science Building and a shortcut from the Science Building entrance to the Williams Auditorium.
Occasionally, I would use that time walking through to look around and learn about that building. I would see where the classrooms and labs were held, and sometimes I would peer inside. Not during class hours because that would be silly, but when the rooms are empty. I have found recording studios, study spaces, a room with a green screen and many more. It is great to discover new places and meet new people, so I recommend exploring campus.
My job at the Torch also took me to many unfamiliar places I hadn’t been before. I explored anywhere and everywhere on campus and still found some new surprises.
In early April, some of my friends found a room that hardly anyone used and showed me, which has become my new study space. This is one room I am keeping a secret.
Another good part about exploring campus is that you could do it on your own or with friends. It is fun and you get plenty of exercise. My time overall on campus so far has led me to discover these new rooms, winding hallways, and new walking routes. So, I would take the time to walk around and explore if I were you because you never know what or who you might find.
CE – RS / C.F.