Middlebrook Weird

Living in the dorms is an experience in itself, but Middlebrook is better than I could have imagined. It’s my perfect mix of eclecticism, spontaneity and full out nerd. For example, my CA has a nose ring and can pull a very convincing Russian accent. It was her decision to make the floor meme-themed (say that ten times fast) and the decorations have been well received. And everybody here has their own cool hobby. Last night ten of us crammed into a dorm room to experience a homemade Jacob’s ladder. Everyone was mesmerized; it was the honor’s floor version of sitting around a campfire. As we watched the plasma rise up between the two poles to spark near the top, we all shared our mutual interests of Rube Goldberg machines, xkcd comics, and genetically modified produce. I caught myself looking around at the sociable and outgoing new friends around me thinking that this year will be just so fun.

Posters advertising free fro-yo summoned all of the buzzing freshman from every corner of the building. Let me tell you, college groups have got it down. They know that if they promote any kind of free wares that students will flock. But they should also know that we aren’t very patient either. My friend and I started a percussion beat with our bowls and spoons, and soon the entire line joined in with a complementary variation of the rhythm. People started break dancing and chanting and yodeling and clapping. The measly scoop of frozen yogurt was hardly the best part.  

                I’ve discovered a nifty study spot in the laundry room where the white noise of the machines and clean scent of detergent creates a peaceful bubble.  I friended a couple of first-time laundry doers too. One of them was trying to inconspicuously eye the poster with directions on how to activate washing machine #7. And while I was waiting for my t-shirts to finish their dry cycle, I read a Pablo Neruda to a polite audience. They clapped for me when I was done, and I curtisied like a five year old singing carols at Christmas.

I have high expectations for this first semester. I’ve met some cool people, and I’ve already learned my lesson about going to Superblock around midnight (but that’s another story). My neighbors are friendly. I’ve collected names, facebook friends, phone numbers and stories. I’ve hosted a couple of tea parties in my single dorm and I think I’ve even turned a few coffee drinkers to the other side. All in all, I’m excited. Everything feels good.