One of the newest buildings on campus would be a sight to see for students and faculty - if it were easier to find.
Since it was opened in April, the Biomedical and Physical Sciences Building features many amenities, such as an atrium, state-of-the-art equipment and new furniture - if only students could find it easier.
“The map I had, it wasn’t on there,” said engineering sophomore Brittney Mcgraw. “Then I asked about seven people where the building was and only one knew.”
Mcgraw, who lives in Shaw Hall, said it took her 20 minutes to find the building - which is almost directly across the street and connected to the Chemistry Building.
“They should have put a sign on the front like the rest of the buildings,” Mcgraw said. “I didn’t see one.”
In an effort to help visitors, signs reading “This is the Biomedical and Physical Sciences Building” have been placed at each of the entrances.
But Physiology Chairperson Bill Spielman said everything is running smoothly in the building so far.
“Professors and students alike are enjoying the classroom settings,” he said. “The only complaint I’ve heard from faculty is parking.”
Although Spielman said it’s too early to know the building’s quirks, he is confident everything will be successful this year.
“The custodial staff is working especially hard to keep everything clean,” he added. “They recognize that there’s more students around.”
The building, which is home to the Physiology and Microbiology and Molecular Genetics departments, and the Physics and Astronomy Department, is located on the corner of Wilson Road and Farm Lane. It also houses the new Biomedical and Physical Sciences Library.
“The skylight in the atrium was the best part to me,” said kinesiology junior Carlos Kitchen. “Then they have the art on the walls to spruce up the building. I’d probably study here before anywhere else.”
But with all the features the building has, it can still be confusing trying to find classrooms in the large structure.
“It’s a big building with a necessarily confusing room numbering system,” said Department Chairman of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics Jerry Dodgson. “We just point people who look lost in the right direction. People get it confused with the Biochemistry Building.”
Some students agree with Dodgson.
“You would think a certain room was down one hall and it would be down another one,” Kitchen said. “It’s set up weird.”
Despite confusion in it’s layout, Kitchen added, “Even though it’s like a maze, it’s still beautiful.”
Staff writer Tara May contributed to this report.
