There’s a lack of respect and responsibility that has plagued the dorm bathrooms here at EMU. Last semester, my hall, Elmwood second, had issues with students not picking up after themselves once they were done showering. Despite attempts to resolve the issue, including numerous messages sent to the GroupMe as reminders, hair was frequently left behind. As the new semester has begun and hair is still being found, many continue to feel annoyed. 

This issue of poor bathroom cleanliness is one that every college student has dealt with at one point or another. Hair in the showers, toothpaste left in the sink, unflushed toilets, and drops of who knows what left on toilet seats and the floor underneath. All of it is downright gross. The thing is, it’s an issue that has a very simple solution: take responsibility and clean up after yourself. 

For many first-year students, living in a community space is a new experience. Many of us have only ever shared a bathroom with our families. Having to adjust to sharing an area with 20 strangers can be a challenge. However, being six months into the school year, I feel everyone has had plenty of time to get used to the new environment. 

And trust me, I get it. Accidents happen and people can forget! I once left a hair tie in the bathroom and had intense feelings of guilt for over an hour. However, it’s an issue that happens so frequently I can’t help but think that some people really just don’t care. Taking responsibility for the messes you make isn’t too much to ask, nor should it be seen as an inconvenience.

Not only is this an issue that disrespects fellow students who have to endure the mess, but it also disrespects the lovely custodial staff who clean our bathrooms. They work incredibly hard to ensure that our spaces are clean and safe. Picking up after ourselves takes no time to do and saves them from having to do any more work than necessary.

Students want to feel comfortable where they live. Having an unclean space can make it challenging to feel content.