Insider "The Zen Den". Photo Courtesy: Aliyah Tessier-Nuñez
The closure of Dean College's commuter lounge has left commuting students searching for different spaces to relax and socialize. The lounge, once the only area designated exclusively for commuters, has been converted into a shared space for both commuters and residents called ‘The Zen Den.’
Many commuting students, including former Commuter Student Association president Mikayla Krupski, feel overlooked by the decision. "The lounge was small and needed upgrades, but I liked it because it was a special place for commuters. It helped us make friends," Krupski said. She expressed frustration over the lack of communication, noting that as the president of the association during her sophomore year, she was never informed about the closure. "There were talks of adding a new commuter space in the library, but so far, no action has been taken," she added.
To understand the reasoning behind the changes, David Drucker, Associate Vice President of Student Life and Dean of Students, agreed to an interview. Drucker explained that the decision to close the lounge was part of a broader effort to upgrade campus facilities. "We are always looking for ways to renovate and upgrade spaces on campus, that is always the goal…a few things happened in tandem," Drucker said. He highlighted several recent renovations, including updates to the library learning center, Boomers, and the atrium, with all new seating areas and places to relax, which he believes have created additional and ample spaces for both commuter and resident students to study, relax, and socialize together.
Drucker further elaborated on the creation of ‘The Zen Den,’ which replaced the commuter lounge. "One of the things we noticed at other universities was a focus on wellness spaces. So we decided to renovate the lounge and create 'The Zen Den,' a space divided into four different areas where students can relax, listen to music, and study. It’s open 24/7, and we felt it was a way to create the best of both worlds, offering something for both commuters and residents."
Despite these upgrades to the library and other shared spaces, some students remain concerned that the specific needs of commuters are not being met. Many hope the college will follow through on its promise to establish a dedicated commuter space in the library, but for now, commuters are left without a place exclusively for them. The lack of clear communication and the lack of a new space have left some feeling disconnected and searching for solutions.
Comments