With the opening of the new Hodson Hall Commons after a year and a half of construction, students welcome the new facility with mixed reactions.
Maggie Matthews, a sophomore, had a positive response but admitted it was a little strange at first. “I love it, but it kind of feels like I’m not at Washington College. I’m not used to a student center, but like anything new it takes some getting used to.”
According to washcoll.edu, the Hodson Commons can hold 1800 students.
Kat Muller, a junior, is pleased with the center. “I’m excited for a place to hang out. I also think the presentation is interesting. We’re no longer serving ourselves, but we’re being served.” Muller added, “I’m curious to see if the food stays as good as it was opening day.”
David Ho, a sophomore, said. “It’s awesome. I didn’t expect them to have video games. It is hard to find someone to sit with, though.”
Donna Dhue-Wilkins, Director of Dining Services, said, “It’s a nice place to work for employees. We’re very excited about the opening, and we’re enjoying student feedback.”
Seniors who had been through three dining halls while at WC were impressed.
Mary DiAngelo believed that the Commons has transformed the social life at WC, saying, “it does really create a focal point on campus.”
Nikki Palmer agreed, saying, “I also think its more of a social atmosphere. You see people on campus and I feel like it’s back to freshmen year.”
“I was pretty much sold by the fiesta ware,” continued Palmer, citing the colorful plates. “And we have soft serve ice cream again. We haven’t had soft serve since freshman year.”
DiAngelo did see a few difficulties. “It’s hard to give an accurate statement on the dining hall because we’re still in the honeymoon phase. But I do hate how we’re getting screwed over with the lack of meal exchange.”
Sam DeCarlo said, “The lines are hard to get used to; it’s not moving fast enough. And the location of the knives and forks create issues because I walk around wondering where they are. But I know the dining hall has to work out its kinks.”
Most students hope that the food stays as good as it was on opening day. “Washington College has a history of feeding people it wants to impress very well, and not its students,” said DiAngelo.
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