The other day, I passed one of the many groups of prospective students touring UR during Spring Open Campus. I could see myself in each one of those timid, confused high school students trying to choose among many seemingly similar colleges, each promising to be better than the rest. As I walked past them, I smiled, hoping that somehow my little gesture would be the deciding factor in showing that UR is the school for them.
At the same time, two male students walked past. Upon seeing the group of touring students, their conversation changed.
In decidedly vulgar language, one commented on his drinking behavior and went on to elaborate about a repulsive sexually transmitted disease that he acquired from drunkenly “hooking up” with “some dirty chick.”
The mother who I had just smiled at nearly covered her daughter’s ears as they hurried their pace to catch up with the front of the group.
Had this been the first time I had heard students deliberately being idiots in front of a tour group, I would have simply thought that those guys were rude, but it wasn’t. In fact, almost every time I see a Meridian leading a tour group, I hear a student make an obnoxious comment. Usually, they are not as repulsive as this boy’s account of his new rash, but nevertheless, they are unnecessary. I have heard students whisper, “This place sucks, don’t come here” and run away giggling. Once, a pretty girl walked by on one of the tours and a group of guys were like, “Yo, you’re hot. You should come here.”
Honestly, grow up – do you think that’s what she wanted to hear in deciding which college she wanted to attend? I have also heard students who think they’re doing the tour group a favor by yelling, “Rochester rules!”
Spring Open Campus is a time where everyone should be courteous and demonstrate what it is that makes UR special, including taking the time to be kind and supportive of all the families visiting – everyone should be willing to be helpful and informative. Instead of steering students away from UR, realize that we want to attract better students. Our reputation is one of smart, hardworking students, which we need to demonstrate in order for it to continue.
Personally, I remember the college search like it was yesterday, and those obnoxious little comments had an influence on my view of a school. Luckily, I hadn’t heard any on my UR tour, or I could possibly be missing out on the wonderful opportunities here.
And guys, if that girl does come here, she will remember that you are the one with the rash – you have no chance.
Paret can be reached at eparet@campustimes.org.
