Contest winners try to improve Res. Living

While many students believe Residential Living services could be improved, three may have the chance to see their suggestions acted upon. These three lucky students are recent winners of the Residential Living Home Improvement contest. The contest was sponsored by the Residential Advisory Board, a group of students who voice student concerns about Residential Living programs to the department. Chairperson of the Residential Advisory Board Suma CM, said entries in the contest were judged mainly on how creative and feasible the suggestions are. College freshman Kristine Juncker won first prize in the contest for her proposal. Juncker suggested that information about the city of Philadelphia and how to use public transportation be posted in all residences. CM, a College sophomore, said the RAB would recommend to have this proposal implemented by next year. Residential Living Director Gigi Simeone said she saw no reason why this plan could not be implemented. Second prize went to Engineering sophomore Christopher McKay. McKay, a Daily Pennsylvanian sports writer, suggested that the Superblock area have a place, like McClelland Hall in the Quadrangle, where students can go if they miss a dining service meal. "Nobody wants to walk to the Quad," McKay said. McKay added that the Underground Cafe in High Rise North would be a perfect site since it already has cooking facilities and a seating area. The third prize winner, College senior John DeSimone, took a more comprehensive look at problems, specifically in the High Rises. DeSimone discussed recycling, energy conservation, laundry services and ResNet. One of his proposals recommends that thermostats be installed in the High Rises in order to conserve energy. Another of DeSimone's ideas is to have students be able to use their PENNcard instead of quarters to operate the washers and dryers in the laundry rooms. The winners will all receive prizes, ranging from gift certificates to The Book Store to $25 worth of quarters. CM said there were only six total entries in the contest. She added that they were all serious proposals about how to change Residential Living for the better. All entries were judged by a group of staff and students. Associate Vice Provost for University Life Larry Moneta was one of the judges, CM said.