As a commuter, I try to carry the least amount of baggage (literally), so I’ve never felt the need to search for a storage locker on campus. It wasn’t until a few days ago that I learned Moravian has commuter lockers.
The HUB Construction Project page on the Moravian website reads, “Discover new friendships when you connect with others in our dedicated Commuter Lounge, complete with lockers for a more inclusive on-campus experience.”
Personally, I think the Commuter Lounge is an incredibly small space for commuters. It was built in the most open and inconvenient spot on the third floor. The lounge is positioned right beside the steps, where groups of students and staff tend to congregate and crowd between classes. Also, the piano echoes throughout the floor, distracting commuters who may be looking for a place to relax.
I might just be nosy, but I have often been distracted by the commotion. Because of that, I wouldn’t recommend the lounge to someone looking to focus on their studies.
In addition, the lounge and the small area in the Student Organization Suite on the second floor have locker areas. These lockers are more like cubbies for putting a few books and a lunch, and that’s about it. I don’t think these tiny, confined cubbies are enough space for art and computer science students who have to haul around large supplies. Last semester, the lockers often broke, and after the space was built, it seemed like an afterthought. It isn’t even a space reserved for commuters, as residents can just walk in because no swipe is required. If the school wants to improve the “lounge,” they should make it a closed room where commuter students swipe to enter. Commuters need an actual lounge. The commuter “lounge” should update the space by including a microwave and utensils for those of us who pack our lunches and need to heat food.
If you are a commuter looking for somewhere to study, focus, or relax, I’d recommend stopping by the focus room, located next to the Makuvek Field terrace. This space has 2-person booths, focus rooms, and couches that are often empty. I particularly like to stop here to finish a quick assignment before a class or during a large mid-day gap. The Mindfulness Suite, a serene place with dim lighting, is designed to help you regulate your stress, perfect for a recharge during exam season.
On top of being a full-time student, being a commuter is already a minefield and exhausting. Thankfully, I live only about 20 minutes from campus. Still, to accommodate commuter students who travel more than 45 minutes, the lounge should be moved to a larger, quieter space or completely updated.
Towards the end of the semester, a Google Form or survey could be sent to commuter students to gather input on improvements they need to see.
