Micro-benching

Every time the temperature rises above 50º in the early spring, Fordham students slither out of their dorms and venture to the grass oasis of Edward’s Parade where they lay out to absorb as much solar energy as possible. To the immediate south of this iconic lawn is Freeman Hall. 

Though this hall is most intimately known by science students, the building is open to all.  For STEM students who are strong enough to venture to Freeman in their free time or the liberal arts students who are brave enough to wander near a science building, the balcony on the front of the building is a great place to enjoy the warm weather with greater comfort than sitting on the ground.

Overlooking Eddy’s, the balcony offers a comforting view of nature that positively affirms every New Yorker’s desperate hope for spring. Most importantly, elevated above the ground, Freeman dwellers aren’t plagued by the inconveniences of dirt. Relaxing on Eddy’s requires special accommodations (either a lawn blanket or the emotional resilience to survive grass stains). But on Freeman, there are multiple bench options. 

*DISCLAIMER: Technically, the balcony has chairs. But if you think about it, benches are just elongated chair furnishings. Or chairs are just benches on a diet. Or baby benches. Or micro benches. The difference is unimportant. 

Most importantly, Freeman has what Eddy’s never could: tables. This luxury adds an additional horizontal space that makes studying infinitely more likely to happen. The space is also quasi-sheltered by overhead trees, therefore protecting laptops from the crippling glare of the sun. Whereas Eddy’s is the land of inconveniently attempting to study on the ground for a few minutes before giving up and talking with friends, Freeman is an environment conducive to productivity.

Photosynthesizing on Eddy’s is an annual rite of passage which I highly encourage. However, if you’re looking for a less naturalistic vibe with relatively more productivity and functionality, consider enjoying the weather in the sitting area on the Freeman Balcony. The location and amenities of Freeman’s balcony make these micro benches an equally nature-immersed place to enjoy the warm weather.