Last night I was talking to a fellow Temple student about the environment of our fair University. I really like going to Temple, as it is affordable (comparatively) and convenient for me. But the main campus is kind of. . . I don't know, unfriendly. I know unwelcoming campuses, as my undergraduate school was designed by a famous prison architect. Temple actually has a lot going on, but. . . not a lot to make you want to stay and hang out there. I mean, plant some flowers or something! Erect some non-institutional seeming coffee shops or bars right on campus. It's just not at all cozy, and I feel bad for kids who live in the dorms who have nothing else to do but, presumably, stay in their rooms and drink.
I guess I am naive, but I actually thought it was a good idea that someone decided to build a movie theater in North Philly. I told my classmate last night how excited I was. Then, this morning, I clicked on philly.com and read this. God, the thing has only been open two days. What is wrong with people?
December 7th, 2006 at 12:35 pm
I really loved my years at Temple, but I know what you mean about campus. Mostly, I think it's an issue of isolation. Campus is surrounded by a lot of hostile folks, and going out at night can be really hazardous.
Last year I interviewed for a development position on campus and was told management is trying to turn Temple into the Columbia of Philly. Unless they can improve security, access, and change its status as a primarily commuter school, it'll never happen.
December 7th, 2006 at 1:23 pm
I'm kind of irritated that Temple would even want to be like Columbia (as if there is any comparison, money-wise). When I lived in New York, Columbia had a very fortress-like appearance - I have no idea what it's like now with the massive expansion. I like how Temple doesn't close itself off from the rest of the neighborhood. I just wish there was more fun stuff to do up there. And more security. And better lighting. Okay, I have a lot of wishes. . .
December 8th, 2006 at 2:24 pm
The prison architect thing makes it all make sense.
Yikes.
September 26th, 2007 at 12:44 pm
I did realize that "Picky" went to Temple for grad school. Me too!
As much as the campus is a bit drab, you should have seen it 5 years ago when I was just starting my graduate studies. Talk about ugly and boring.
By the way, if you haven't discovered it already, try the #3 from the Japanese/Korean food truck on 12th and Berks. It's awesome, and usually the only place I'll eat at Temple.
September 26th, 2007 at 12:45 pm
I mean "Messy".