Don't Walk Across the Quad

In the warmer months, ESF students can be seen lounging, playing frisbee, and otherwise enjoying the grassy common space in the middle of campus. One thing that students do not do, out of habit and from pressure from fellow students, is walk across the quad to reach their destination.

This is one of many traditions at ESF and among the most visible. The rule is what one might call "socially enforced". Many a grad student on his or her way to the far edge of campus or on the way home has begun to walk across the grass, only to be verbally assailed by vigilant students warning them not to use the grass as a walking path. People learn quickly.

The stone monument on the corner of the quad at the entrance to campus reminds students to treat the grass with care and not walk across it. There has even been a Facebook group started in honor of this tradition.

Next time you are on campus, remember to walk the length and width, don't walk the hypotenuse. Taking the quickest route from A to B is not allowed. Use that time to stop and enjoy the grass.