Don't be Rude

I feel juvenile for deciding that a letter needed to be written concerning the manners of Indiana University students, but I’ve come to realize that it will be necessary to calm my aggravated mind.

Now, I’ve never been a stickler on etiquette, but some rules are enforced for a reason. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve been run off the sidewalk because someone didn’t feel like scooting two inches to the left. I was taught to stay to the left of the sidewalk, leaving plenty of room for people walking in the opposing direction. Apparently, no one else absorbed that lesson.

Another aspect of etiquette students could improve is the ridiculous behavior demonstrated at bus stops. Yes, I know it’s getting colder and people are becoming eager for bus arrivals, but please, leave room for others that are using the sidewalk to get from one place to another. When hordes of people flock to the bus stops, particularly outside of Swain Hall, they create a barrier of bodies that makes it impossible for anyone trying to walk on the sidewalk.

The other day, I was victimized by the relentless bus stop mob. I was trying to reach Jordan Hall when I approached the mob and had no way to get by. Usually I can weave my way through the bodies, but this day I had to scream, “excuse me” for anyone to move. This is what upsets me the most: the fact that these people see others truly struggling to get past and would rather stand there than be courteous and let them by. I don’t understand how someone could have the audacity to deny passage on the sidewalk, whose name clearly states its purpose.

So, the next time you see a poor soul like me trying to weave their way through a large swarm, please be kind and help that person out by shifting one way or the other. It really won’t take much effort and you will be making someone’s day much more enjoyable. We are all adults here. Can we please start acting like it?

Courtney Crockett
IU sophomore