Pattie Cobb is one of the best places to live on campus. I am talking location, location, location. I can, and do, step out of my dorm at 8:58 a.m. for chapel. The dorm mom is awesome, and the laid-back atmosphere is amazing. However, like all good things, it has some downsides. I am willing to accept the old toilet, small shower and outdated sink area — but I cannot accept the placement, number or price of the electrical outlets.
My roommates and I live in a three-person room. When we moved in last semester, we were appalled at the placement of the electrical outlets. One is near the closet and one is behind the beds. Pure agony ensued. Rarely do I need an outlet near my closet. Even more rarely do I need an outlet behind my bed.
Another problem with the electrical outlets in Pattie Cobb is the sheer number, or lack thereof. A total of three outlets grace our room. Yes, that number is correct. There are three outlets for three women — in other words, “Mission Impossible.” Ladies around America understand my pain. KitchenAid appliances and Christmas lights that must be hung cannot survive with three outlets.
The physical and psychological price of three outlets is challenging. It is physically challenging because it forces you to crawl in spaces no person should crawl. You step on things your mother told you never to step on. You jump on things no sane human would jump on. This game is not just physical — it is mental. You mentally prepare yourself for the cost of three surge protectors and one extra-long extension cord. You strategize about which appliances are worthy of the outlets and which items are expendable. The price of the outlets is a double-edged sword.
Despite these issues, I am optimistic. Hope is on the horizon. Pattie Cobb has always been a great dorm full of people who care and listen to your troubles, but renovation needs to happen. Only having three electrical outlets in a women’s dorm room is not practical. I am not the only one who feels this way. Many of my friends in Pattie Cobb express similar stories of dismay regarding the outlet situation. More outlets need to be installed and in better areas. I am not suggesting a total makeover for Pattie Cobb. I just want one small touch-up.
We can work on my toilet from 1988 later.
