With signage that often confuses rather than guides, students at CSI face unnecessary challenges in navigating the vast 204-acre campus.
By: S.Manai
I stopped three students walking towards me and asked, “Excuse me, do you know where I can find room 217?”
“No, I’m not really sure,” one replied.
“Did you try checking upstairs?”
“Yes, “I said, defeated ”..twice.”
“No, sorry, we’re not really sure,” the other said. I thanked them and continued on through the maze that was CSI’s campus. It wasn’t until 15 minutes later that I arrived at room 217 late, fatigued, and drenched in sweat.
At some point, every student at CSI has had a similar experience navigating their first couple of weeks, having difficulties getting around campus to find their classes. The lack of clear signage is a major issue. Existing signs are barely legible and/or misleading, featuring faded writing and small fonts that are difficult to read from a distance.
Not to mention, the signs displaying the same room or building numbers that often point in conflicting directions. The confusion is frustrating and I’ve even resorted to using the maps app on my phone for directions to class!
Surely, with its 204-acre campus, CSI has no shortage of space to display clear and legible signs both inside and outside the buildings. If aesthetics are a factor, students can collaborate with the administration to ensure that the signage blends in seamlessly with the existing surroundings and does not interfere with the integrity of the school layout.
Posting proper signage, directions, and arrows is an important part of facilitating daily activity on campus, not just for the first few weeks of school, but year round.
