Campus vexed by constant rains

Campus vexed by constant rains

By Allyssa Lee

Endless gray skies accompanied with constant rains are an
uncommon sight for Southern Californians, and the UCLA community
has found itself unsuited for the relentless cold weather.

Since the beginning of the month, images of puddles and
mudslides from construction sites have been rampant throughout the
campus and a major hindrance to getting to and from classes.

Many said the rain has had a major impact on their moods, habits
and driving times.

"At first I kind of liked the rain," said Sergio Gutierrez, a
third-year geo-engineering student. "But now it’s getting on my
nerves."

Other students shared Gutierrez’s sentiments about the rains.
Some commuting students have reported substantial increase in their
daily commute to classes.

"It’s been a real problem for me because it takes me 45 minutes
extra (to get to school)," said Elias Pappas, a third-year biology
student. "There are accidents on the freeway, and yesterday I
didn’t come in because of the rain."

Other students’ reasons for dissatisfaction are more
general.

"I really don’t like rain," said Cindy Lee, a third-year
sociology student. "I don’t like getting wet. It’s muddy and
umbrellas are a pain."

Indeed, student stores have noted a surge in umbrellas and rain
gear sales.

"The umbrellas ­ people seem to be buying them now," said
Sima Sura, first-year biochemistry student and customer service
representative at the Health Sciences Store.

"Usually we never sell any umbrellas, and now, there seems to be
an influx in the sale of the amount of umbrellas because of the
rain."

Additional forms of rain preparation include everything from
bags over backpacks and greasing boots, to heavy jackets and layers
of clothing.

"People in California don’t own rain gear," said Annie Tran, a
first-year biology student. "You just go out in tennis shoes and a
light jacket and bundle up in more layers … It feels like we’re
living in Seattle."

Tran also observed a mood change among the student body.

"People are much more quiet ­ they just go back to the
dorms and throw off all their clothes and hang around. It’s much
quieter. The campus looks really empty. You don’t see as many
people."

But not everyone opposed the precipitation. Kevin Landis, a
first-year undeclared student, said he was more than ready for the
rain.

"I’m from Northern California and there’s flooding in my
hometown, but here it hasn’t really affected me. Actually, I’m
looking forward to more rain. It puts me in a better mood."

Still, others don’t seem to share Landis’ optimism for the
consistent rains.

"When you wake up in the morning, you don’t want to get up,"
said Lee. "But I know the one good thing about the rain is when
it’s over; the sky is so blue and the weather is beautiful. But
it’s not stopping."