A new program was recently implemented allowing  guests of the opposite sex to visit dorm rooms on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings, between the hours of 6 and 10. This new program has caused a mixture of emotions, not only from students who live on campus but also from commuters.

Some students are excited about this new step toward independence and freedom, while others feel the policy belittles their maturity and rights as an adult. “I am a bio-chemistry major, and the majority of students in my classes are female. This program makes it easy for me because now I can just go to their rooms to study, instead of having to meet up somewhere. College is all about diversity and preparing students for the real world. This new program is definitely a step up for the University,” said senior Chris Heyward.

Although this is a positive change, violating the guidelines and procedures of the program could cause a negative turn. “I think that this new open house program is one of the most exciting things that have happened on this campus. I just pray that everyone cooperates and abides by the rules because one person could destroy this for everyone,” said freshman  Anthony Curry.

One of the guidelines of this open house program states that the students’ doors must remain unlocked and open at all times. Another guideline states that only students assigned to the room or guests of the same sex may sit on beds; all guests of the opposite sex will either sit in chairs or on the floor. Although in favor of the new program, some feel that the guidelines and procedures are over the top and a bit exaggerated. “I feel the program is somewhat fair but at the same time, what is the point of keeping a door open if someone is monitoring the hall? I think the doors should be allowed to be closed and the rooms should be checked when the visit is over. We are adults, and leaving a door open makes me feel like this isn’t a real college,” said freshman Chelsea Harrell.

Some are not at all in favor of the program and feel that it might be a step backward for the University.  Sharea Washington, a senior commuter said, “I think that it’s a disgrace and that it goes against every standard of Charleston Southern University. The Bible said that we should shun the very appearance of evil. Opposite sex visitation can lead to things that go against promoting academic excellence in a Christian environment.”

The Residence Hall Open House Program is designed to encourage academic study, fellowship, and spiritual development. Everyone may not agree or disagree with all of the guidelines that go along with it, but it does prove that as students, our voices and concerns are being heard. “If the rules for the new open house program are respected, this will allow students to learn the importance of interaction with the opposite sex in a positive way; without having to break moral values, which will better prepare them for the real world,” said junior Jocelyn Culver.