The state of the roof

The college’s roof needs a cleaning

By Dominic Dutt, Contributor

Have you ever looked up to view the roof of Douglas College’s New Westminster campus? You will notice what appears to be green, mouldy-looking spots everywhere. Not a pleasant sight, right? That’s exactly what I thought the first time I saw the college’s roof.

I first noticed the roof when I was sitting on the fourth floor of the school. I was checking my email and when I looked up, I immediately lost interest in what I was doing because I was in such disbelief.

On the first day of school orientation, I said to myself, “My goodness. This school is amazingly beautiful.” Unfortunately, because of the roof I no longer feel this way. I have to wonder, when was the last time that glass roof was really cleaned?

Perhaps we choose not to notice. It’s not just the glass roof, either. There are other little things, as well. For example, dusty computer screens—have you noticed them? I’ve also even seen cobwebs in different areas.

The cleanliness of the roof should be an important issue to all of us. It helps with morale. For example, who doesn’t enjoy going to the park? Besides seeing all the greenery, the squirrels, and hearing the sound of birds chirping away, we feel calmer.

Now imagine looking up from the third floor of the school campus where the steps are. The view will likely be of a blue sky seen through the glass roof. This view should bring a sense of calm, relaxation, and improved morale. Now imagine a view of green, mould instead. When was the last time you actually noticed a student admire the sky through the glass roof? Most of those who have seen the roof do not dare look up again.

As a student, I do take pride in Douglas College. I think the New Westminster campus is amazing, and it has become my second home. Although the campus is a great place, it could easily be improved. We spend so much time at the school—whether attending classes, studying, going to clubs, or hanging out with friends—it would be nice if the school itself was more pleasant.

We are paying lots of money to study here. With all that money coming into this college, the least this school can do is clean the glass roof. By the looks of that roof, it seems as if it hasn’t been touched for over two decades. It’s overdue for a good cleaning.