Finding a better way to release your stress

It’s that time of year again; our campus is getting rowdy. We at the Cynic propose the following hypothesis. 

If you take one part non-existent winter, add one week of 80-degree weather and then mix in a few weeks of rainy spring, you have the perfect combination for crime.

There exists a cycle at UVM where students emerge from the winter months and begin going outside again. The potent combination of improving weather and increased stress from classes causes a buildup. That buildup needs an outlet. 

This past week, we have seen students dealing with their “spring awakening” in very destructive ways. 

Some students decided to throw toilets out of the Redstone Lofts. Some decided to use an elevator as a bathroom.

Trust us, there are better options. Yes, finals are approaching and we all need to blow off some steam. But that’s no reason to start squatting all over campus.

Instead of throwing appliances out of your window, try picking up a hobby or going out on the weekends.

When you find yourself daydreaming about what kind of vandalism will “show Bramley not to mess with the students,” maybe it is time to consider joining an intramural sports team.

As students, we are all subject to the same pressures and it is important to realize that when you are invited to a party inside a construction site, chances are it will not end smoothly.

Keep in mind that your actions as students have a greater impact on us all; UVM does not exist in a bubble. These crimes have drawn attention from the surrounding community. 

Burlington residents have commented on local media coverage of the increased crime, calling UVM students “brats” with “no discipline.” It’s pretty embarrassing to us all when a few students create that kind of reputation in our community. 

So consider this our call to students. Keep it real, and don’t let your stress relief activities bring the rest of us down.