Winter weather has been anything but predictable in recent years, leaving many of us questioning what is happening to the “normal” winter patterns we once knew. This season, it feels like we’re experiencing a “new normal.”
As I reflected on this, I had an enlightening conversation with some friends about the preparations made on campus for the upcoming ice storm. It truly made me appreciate the steps to ensure our safety and convenience during such an event.
With the semester in the swing of things, the need for spring to come begins to make its presence known thanks to Punxsutawney Phil; the prediction of an ice storm brought us back to reality. The storm expected to hit our area was a serious concern, especially for those who commute to campus.
It wasn’t just about the storm itself but the disruptions it could cause to our daily routines.
I’ll admit I’m not someone who tracks the weather religiously. Usually, I check the forecast quickly to decide what to wear, but I never expect such drastic changes.
So, when I received the email from the university emergency system about the impending ice storm, I was taken aback. However, the message immediately reassured me. They gave us guidelines and let the professors use their discretion to decide if they would be moving classes to Zoom or in person.
It showed foresight and a genuine concern for students’ safety and gave us and the professors a heads-up. For someone who lives on South Campus, the decision to have the professors decide whether to take classes remotely or in person was a relief. Navigating through icy roads and coordinating shuttle schedules is stressful, but being able to attend class from home alleviated a lot of potential frustration. Thanks to all my professors for having class online!
However, what stood out to me was the campus’s visible preparation.
The amount of salt spread on the walkways and roads was impressive. As someone with a long history of tripping over things (I’m a walking hazard, to be honest), this small but significant action made a huge difference. The walkways felt safer, and I no longer had to worry about the possibility of slipping on the ice. The care taken to ensure that every corner of campus was treated with salt reflected the university’s commitment to safety.
Equally commendable was the university’s recognition of the storm’s potential impact on commuting students. I know many students who travel long distances to attend classes, and the ice storm could have made that dangerous. By making the announcement, the university took a proactive step in safeguarding students and staff.
This gesture, which might seem small to some, actually spoke volumes about how much the university values its community and the well-being of every student, whether they live on campus or commute from afar.
As the semester continues, with both the promise of spring and the unpredictable nature of winter still present, I feel grateful for the preparation and attention to detail shown by the university. Whether ensuring that our classes moved online in the face of a dangerous storm or making sure the campus was safe to navigate, these efforts were not just practical – they were deeply thoughtful.
It’s clear that preparation, adaptability, and care are at the heart of this university’s approach to the unexpected. And for that, I and other students are thankful.
