Dirt piles, cranes and orange fencing—for students at Washington University, these sites are all too familiar thanks to the large construction projects taking over the South 40. But before you roll your eyes and complain, think of all the upsides to construction!

Built in Alarm Clock

For those fortunate enough to be living in a dorm as close to the construction as Liggett/Koenig or Ruby, being woken up every morning by the beeping of a crane can be slightly annoying; however, now, you can use this to your advantage! Instead of relying on energy—wasting alarm clocks that may or may not go off, simply use the unfailing machinery noises as your alarm. Nothing will get you up more efficiently in the morning than the loud, repetitive beeping that you can’t turn off. You’ll never be late to class again!

Morning Workouts

Didn’t sign up for the gym? Want to exercise, but don’t have the time? No problem! With direct paths to classes conveniently blocked by construction, you can use the many round-a-bout paths available as a cardio workout. That way, you can exercise while going to class or any other destination. Plus, if you’re looking for a more challenging workout, you can always use the rocky terrain of the construction sites as an obstacle course. Start running!

Free Entertainment

Sometimes even Wash. U. students need to unwind after classes and have fun. Fortunately, this desire is shared by most of the construction workers, as well. While they are stuck working, they look to some cheerful tunes to lighten up the work environment. Instead of whistling, however, their chosen method happens to be blasting music across campus. So, for those afternoons when there’s nothing to do, simply grab some friends and head toward the raging music. Have a great dance party while avoiding the hot, cramped environment of the indoors.

The “Dead Zone”

We’ve all had those moments: Someone calls and you either don’t feel like talking or you have no time to spare, yet, the person won’t shut up. Well, the construction offers a great way to avoid these unwanted phone calls. Simply walk to the nearest construction area, and pretend that your phone keeps cutting out or that you can’t hear the person over the machinery and will have to call him back. This technique also works in classrooms that aren’t quite far enough to avoid the penetration of loud construction sounds. When the professor asks a question during a particularly raucous escapade, simply repeat that you can’t hear him. He will be forced to wait until the noise ceases before asking you again, thus allowing you more time to think of an answer.

Sweet Rides

Most of the time, people pass by workers without giving them a second glance. However, if you take the time to get to know some workers, it may be to your advantage. After all, who else has access to a giant crane? Ride to classes in style, dig up some dirt, or do whatever you please. Opportunities like this don’t come around often.

Worthwhile Results

The construction may be frustrating now, but it’s guaranteed to result in amazing buildings that you will use and love. Plus, the sight of construction, to some, means progress. The school has the money to spend on itself, so why not use it?

So, next time you hear someone complaining about the construction, or as you take that long, indirect path to class, remember: There’s an upside to everything – even construction.

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Tags: benefits, construction, south 40

This entry was posted on Monday, September 8th, 2008 at 1:03 pm and is filed under Scene. You can follow any responses to this entry through this feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.