Northrop Plaza: a deeper meaning for students
As many would consider the "Heart" of the University of Minnesota, the Cyrus Northrop Memorial Auditorium along with Johnston Hall and Morrill Hall form the "Northrop Plaza" in the Mall area of the Minneapolis Campus. Here, on any given day, can be found students studying, reading, eating, or just engaging in a well deserved power nap. I think that we can all relate. Many students find the Northrop Plaza meaningful in many different aspects. For me, however, it serves a deeper purpose.
The first time I stepped foot in the Mall Area I was intrigued. I felt a sense of tranquility and peacefullness. I think that was because I realized that no matter how many students were there talking and going about their daily duties, the Mall was still quiet. I felt as if the place almost had power over myself and the students. In the center of the Mall Area I found the Northrop Plaza. I find it really easy to get work done here. Getting away from the dorms and away from temptations that may drive me away from doing my homework is the only way that I can successfully study.
Sitting on one of those tables, just gazing up at the beautiful Northrop Memorial Auditorium on a lazy day with the sun beaming down on me, the wind gently blowing across the Mall, with the students coming and going, and the squirrels minding their own business without a care in the world, I feel at peace and one with the campus. I find it fascinating that my surroundings can have such an impact on my life. Expecially my emotions. One reason behind while I feel a connection at the Plaza is because the buildings actually enclose me and make me feel a sense of being cradled. I think one of the major symbols for a university is tall stone columns and old architecture. The place really helps me focus on school and, in a way, forces me to succeed or at least attempt to. If you ever feel like you are just not making any progress on your homework, and it's a nice day outside, I would highly recommend checking it out!