As studious students in a fine academic institution like Syracuse University, we know about nonstop studying. However, now is the time for festivities; even professors agree with that one. What better way to celebrate than MayFest? Warnings from the Surgeon General prove partying at least three times a week may not keep the doctor away, but it does make you a better dancer and one happier person — please note that results may vary.

OK, we joke. But let’s think about what MayFest looks like. The snow is melting and the grass is greening. Kegs are being tapped and the streets run red with cups. Lawns are saturated with beer and other non-mentionable liquids. Residents are dead-bolting their doors. In fact, we interviewed a lifelong resident of Campus Hill, who is also a sophomore at SU, to gauge residents’ perceptions of how carried away, rambunctious and over-the-top SU students are during MayFest.

Here’s what we learned. Most of the semester residents are quite tolerant of students’ behavior. During MayFest, however, many residents worry most about preserving the sanctity of their lawns, porches and garden gnomes. Apparently, it’s not uncommon to find an intoxicated student on their lawns or even using their bathrooms.

Instances like these are far past ‘enjoying the college life;’ they tarnish the reputation of the whole SU community. Why is it that during MayFest college students have ignored even the most mundane laws and common courtesies? It doesn’t take a physicist to know breaking and entering is illegal and something residents shouldn’t have to put up with. Residents aren’t asking for silence. They do prefer, however, a neighborhood where college students enjoy themselves while also being mindful of their neighbors.

We aren’t writing to ask you to change the world. All we ask is that now that MayFest has come and gone, finish the year partying responsibly — yes, it is a big word, but not a lot to ask. What would the school say? What would Otto say? What would your grandmama say? Let’s end the year with pride — SU pride. So when you’re finished with the infamous red cup, send it home to the can. And, please, use your own restroom.

Tyrell J Carter

Freshman communication and rhetorical studies major

Curtis T Cheney

Sophomore civil engineering major

Joshua L Weaver

Junior civil engineering major

 

Published on May 2, 2011 at 12:00 pm