Written by Gina Cielo
A new semester at Harding always brings something new and exciting, and this year is no exception. This summer, many additions and transformations occurred on the Harding campus.
Let’s start with the most obvious change to campus: the Benson Auditorium. The rough orange seats are no more, and plush tan seats now take over the auditorium. I was more than happy to see the newly reupholstered seats make their debut the first day of chapel. While finding hairballs, half-chewed gum and food crumbs in my seat was fun for my first two years here at Harding, it was indeed time for a change. However, the new seats do present one problem and one problem only: lack of space. It seems I am just going to have to get used to bumping elbows and awkwardly crossing my legs.
While I am willing to get used to the new chapel seats, I am unwilling to accept the fact that the freshman girls’ dorm, Sears, has been completely remodeled. I will admit that my unwillingness comes strictly out of jealousy. My freshman year in Sears consisted of allergic reactions, moldy bathrooms and rusted walls. Where furniture was once stationary and walls were concrete, there are now movable beds, wooden desks, bathroom cabinets, two sinks and large plastic showers. As you can tell, I am a bit resentful toward the new freshman girls. Despite my jealousy, I am glad the transformation finally occurred.
The next large addition to campus is the statue of Uncle Bud. Who is Uncle Bud you ask? Good question. At this point, the majority of students, along with myself, have absolutely no idea. I am awaiting some sort of announcement to lay the rumors to rest. Until then, I will continue to take pictures on the bench imitating his pose.
Jump Chinese Express is yet another addition to the Harding campus. I was extremely happy to see a Chinese restaurant take its place in the student center. It seems everyone is as excited as I am due to the long line developing at each lunch period. While I do wish they served my two favorite foods, orange chicken and crab Rangoon, I will continue to eat at Jump Chinese Express.
The additions on campus this semester definitely have their pros and cons. With each change comes excitement and anticipation for the new semester. I am grateful for each improvement and look forward to see what other changes occur during the semester.
Gina Cielo is a guest contributer for the Bison. She may be contacted atgcielo@harding.edu
