We are all immensely privileged and fortunate to be studying at this gorgeous and respected institution, yet that does not mean we need to forfeit all suggestions. Despite the well-manicured appearance of DU’s many grasses and copper sidings, it could do with a little sprucing up of the interior. Students, even those with stacked schedules and a reserved study spot in the library, spend a decent amount of their lives in the dorms. As young and capable adults, we should be given the independence to find personal expression and bring vitality into our gloomy rooms.
Not only do some of the dorm rooms resemble five-star prison cells, but the Housing Department’s vague restrictions leave little room for creativity or individuality. Who knew lava lamps were a “no, no?” They actually are not listed within the guide, but will be confiscated if found. They do, on the other hand, specify a myriad of objects I do sincerely hope people are not harboring in their rooms, such as nun chucks, ninja stars and swords. It is not that we should not or are not willing to stick to regulations, with a few grunts and groans perhaps, but many people are simply unaware. Given some amendments to the current constraints, students are more than adept at making sure they do not color outside the lines. First, however, we need to be empowered to make our rooms another unique aspect of our DU experience.
Students should be encouraged to bring color, vibrancy and personal expression to their living spaces, through paint, collage, tapestries and more. In these circumstances, this would generate a more positive and motivational atmosphere and facilitate creativity, which is often underappreciated. Creativity is becoming thought of as the key to success. As stated in a 2012 Psychology Today article, “When the creative spirit stirs, it animates a style of being: a lifetime filled with the desire to innovate, to explore new ways of doing things, to bring dreams of reality.” Creativity is pervasive throughout our lives, even when we do not notice it. Ingenuity is fostered through imagination and creation and is critical to maintaining a sense of exhilaration in our endeavors.
DU students are innovative enough to take the bare walls and turn them into artistic masterpieces and brillant manifestations of their inner selves. JMAC-ers seem to have been given the best lot, while Halls and Towers are maybe both second best. Tied for last, Nelson and Nagel are stuck with boring cement ceilings, windows surrounded by pale chalky brick and pure, white painted walls. If the shades could be replaced, even just a small portion of the wall dedicated for students’ desires and the cement covered up there would be a monumental improvement.
The concerns against this are valid though. There are hazards, especially when dealing with young and distracted youth. We all recognize how easy it is to set off the fire alarm, but also how vulnerable we could be to a real emergency. Flame candles are still understandably unauthorized objects, but how about a discussion on LED candles?
Another concern may be the increased risk of demonstrating offensive attitudes or beliefs. As a student body that values diversity and has dealt recently with incidents such as the hurtful messages written in Halls, this could be a sensitive issue. Through requiring students to present a brief proposal these risks could be eliminated. Perhaps another stipulation for making permanent changes to the room could be that if and when necessary to remove these changes, students are personally responsible. People could sign a contract to repaint or repair whatever they had transformed.
With freedom comes responsibility. Students at this university have a right to gain independence and trust through demonstrating their maturity and accountability. Students who accept liability for the products of their creativity should be empowered to express themselves and bring forth vitality within the hallowed halls of DU residency.
