President Kevin Brown informed students during chapel on Oct. 6 that the beloved Student Center would be temporarily closed until Fall 2022 for construction and renovations. Since then, students and faculty have been trying to figure out how to keep Asbury’s community alive in the absence of the STUCE. For the past two decades, the Student Center has served as a place for people to catch up with friends over a drink from the HICCUP, cram for the exam next period that you waited until the last minute to study for, and to play competitive matches of ping pong. In short, the STUCE has been Asbury’s living room since 2007. And so, in light of its impending absence, we have to get creative to fill the void that the STUCE has left.
- Utilize the Commons
The Common Areas are indeed not as accessible or convenient as the STUCE. But, when they are available, they provide a homey, comforting space to spend time with friends indoors or host a casual study session. Some could even argue that the commons have a leg up on the STUCE because they have kitchens. So, make pasta and brownies with your friends; you can never go wrong with pasta and brownies.
- Go to the Bistro
Despite Madi Anderson’s compelling article, ‘Stop Hating on the Bistro,” many still tend to avoid it in favor of the cafeteria. This may not be much of an option anymore as the HICCUP will be moving into that space. Since this is the new reality we live in, let’s take advantage of it. Yes, you have to walk up the stairs, but an Apple Spice Chai from the HICCUP is well worth the effort.
- Spend time on Main Street
Wilmore may be a small town but has cozy businesses ready to welcome people with open arms. Namely, we have Solomon’s Porch and our dearly beloved, Drinklings, which has just recently reopened. Not only do these two places offer great food and coffee, but they also offer the best vibes on this side of the Mississippi River.
- Be intentional
Especially in the COVID-19 pandemic, it is really easy to fall into extensive solitude. Without an obvious common space, the temptation to go about life alone rises. Yet, that completely goes against Asbury’s goal of being an intentional, kind community. So, reach out to your friends and plan a time and place to spend with them.
