We are officially back for another semester at Moravian, and it already feels like campus life is starting to pick up again. The leaves are just beginning to change, everyone’s figuring out their schedules, and yes, the HUB is still under construction. 

I think we’ve all learned to accept that the HUB will be done when it’s done. But, while we’re waiting for those doors to open finally, something else popped up that I was absolutely not expecting: a brand-new shuttle.

I’m not kidding when I say I was shocked. One day, I saw it roll up, and it took me a second to even realize it was ours. Moravian has officially upgraded part of its shuttle fleet, and honestly, it couldn’t have come at a better time. With more students enrolling every year, the demand for shuttle services has been higher than ever. 

If you’ve been around for a while, you know the struggles all too well, as those older shuttles have their good days, but when one breaks down, it’s game over. That’s when the little van suddenly makes an appearance outside of its usual weekend role. Don’t get me wrong, the van does the job, but squeezing into it during peak hours is not exactly the highlight of anyone’s day.

So imagine my excitement when I stepped onto the new shuttle for the first time. It’s just the right size: a little bigger than the older ones, but not as massive as our biggest bus. It feels spacious without being overwhelming, and best of all, it runs so smoothly. 

There’s something about being in a vehicle that doesn’t rattle or groan with every single turn that just makes the ride that much better. It already feels more reliable, which is exactly what students need when they’re rushing between classes, dorms, and different parts of campus.

But let me talk about my favorite part: the seats. Yes, the seats. They’re not just seats, they’re actually comfortable. I didn’t realize how much of a difference that would make until I sat down and thought, “Wow, this feels… nice.” 

It’s not the kind of comfort that’s going to make me fall asleep instantly, but it’s definitely enough to make a long ride across campus or back from South feel way less exhausting. When you’re hauling a backpack full of textbooks or coming back from a late-night study session, those few extra inches of cushion feel like a blessing.

What I love most about this new shuttle, though, is what it represents. Yes, it’s “just a shuttle,” but it demonstrates that the university is paying attention to the small details that enhance student life. 

While we’re all excited for the big reveal of the HUB someday, improvements like this are what we get to enjoy right now. They’re the changes that immediately affect our daily routines and make the campus feel just a bit more cared for.

So this week’s praise goes to our shiny new ride. It may not be glamorous, but it’s dependable, comfortable, and something students are already thankful for. Here’s to smoother commutes, fewer breakdowns, and maybe even enjoying the ride a little more than we expected.

 Sometimes progress comes in the form of big renovations, and sometimes it comes in the form of a brand-new shuttle pulling up right when you need it.