<p>While I understand that there may not be a great solution - a sympathetic ear and an offer to work towards a solution would be helpful. Instead I was told that in order to have my daughter moved, I would need to have a documented medical diagnosis, requiring air condition. In which case, per the Assistant Director of Res. Life, chances are that she would end up in an apartment with 3 Senior girls. I guess that was supposed to be comforting and encouraging. The other option that was offered was for her and her roommate to enter the room swap later in September to see if other students would be interested in swapping. I think that it would be highly unlikely that students in an air conditioned room would be willing to switch to a cramped non air conditioned room. I am extremely disappointed by the response that I have received. I really expected better for those in charge of making decisions for the students. I know that there are vacancies in air conditioned buildings that could be made available. Everyone that registers doesn’t show up at the start of the year. In addition, I don’t think that students staying in Wicomico, which was built in 1954, and other non air conditioned rooms that are categorized as “traditional doubles” should be charged the same room fee as who are housed in the brand new Prince Frederick Hall with air condition, free laundry facilities and other amenities. That is appalling and from what I understand, is different than practices at other Universities where room rates vary depending on size, amenities, etc. I was told by the Assistant Director of Res Life that the University is looking at charging different room rates starting next year. My thought is that is should have been started this year. Room rates for Wicomico Hall and other non air conditioned dorms should not be the same. Today was the first day that my daughter and her roommate had some relief as the temperature was somewhat lower today. They have two fans and a window fan in their room that stay on constantly. In addition, on the really hot days the smell from the bathroom seeps into the hall making for an even more uncomfortable environment. Was anyone else aware that the room rates were the same for all rooms that fall into the same category, regardless of the size and amenities? (i.e. all traditional doubles are charged the same rate, regardless of size, air, etc.) Any thoughts?
Also - looking around online, I found documents dated in 2011 announcing plans for Prince Frederick Hall to be built indicating that Wicomico and a couple other older dorms would be closed when Prince Frederick Hall opened. I’m not sure why the older dorms remain open - but I was just told that plans were updated. I wasn’t given a specific reason why. I found that to be interesting. Thanks for your comments and feedback!</p>