To the Editor:
Contrary to popular belief, the faculty and staff of RPI listen to students. All you need to do is make your voice heard.
After writing a “My View” in The Polytechnic last week, as well as contacting several members of the administration, Residence Life, and various members of student government, the issue concerning housing on the third floor of McGiffert House in Stacwyck has been resolved.
Several members of McGiffert’s top floor (as well as Independent Council Vice President Dan Roberts ’07, to whom I owe thanks) met with Assistant Director of Residence Life Amanda Bingel on Wednesday in order to solve our problem. After discussing our views on things, the option to remain in our building for the following school year was extended to all residents affected. After careful consideration, however, all apartments have decided to leave McGiffert House. Three apartments are taking up the offer to move to Wiltsie, and the fourth unit’s residents are moving off-campus. While myself and my roommates had planned to stay, after learning that we would be the only apartment left, we felt it was in the best interest of all parties involved that we move.
Looking back on this problem, I believe better communication would have properly avoided the firestorm that resulted. It was the fact that the residents of the third floor felt marginalized and ignored that bothered us the most. Had we been personally met with and an explanation put forth, followed by options presented to us, this transition would have gone much smoother. Receiving an e-mail essentially saying “you have to move,” is quite disrespectful and headstrong. Had Residence Life instead said “look, we’d appreciate it if you move, but you can remain in McGiffert if you feel compelled to,” perhaps all affected apartments would have taken up their offer to move right away.
I would like to take the time to thank any and all members of the administration, Residence Life, and student government who spoke with residents of McGiffert’s third floor in order to diffuse the situation. I would also like to extend a hearty welcome to Alpha Phi to its new home. This building has treated me well in the past, and I hope you enjoy it in the future.
Ryan Hawthorne
ELEC/CSYS ’08
