Honestly, I’d be shocked if you hadn’t heard some student quip, “Well, we are the forty-sixth ugliest college campus in America” in the last few weeks. My friend Anna said it to me a week ago in a joking tone, but with enough of an edge that I could tell it’s a sore spot.
Thanks to an ad on Snapchat this summer, many SkidKids became aware of our school’s presence on a list that all colleges try to avoid being on. As an incoming college freshman it’s nerve wrecking and disappointing to see some people think the place you’re spending the next four years of your life in is that ugly.
For the sake of our school and our pride, I have decided to compile a collection of photos that counter this infuriating rank.
1. The Front of Murray Atkins Dining Hall
Dhall, what would we do without you? Your coffee gets us up in the morning and french-fries sustain us at night. Where else can you chow down on soft serve and vegan mac and cheese from Emily’s while socializing with your friends and seeing almost everyone you know? The exterior of dhall is a heartening sight on a cold night at 10:30pm or, let’s be honest, anytime of day.
2. Haupt Pond
Personally, the pond is my go-to reading spot. It doesn’t matter if I’m in the gazebo, on a bench, or on the ground, the pond is perfect. It’s also the best place to have a private phone call/crying session with your parents (not that I would know anything about that). At night the pond is ideal for a secluded hang with friends.
3. Arthur Zankel Music Center
Zankel is initially well known by the freshmen for housing the “Let’s Talk About Sex” presentation we received on day two of being college students. Luckily, it is also known for it’s beautiful auditorium with a giant window that you can get lost in during any presentation.
4. The Northwoods
If you’re willing to brave the mosquitoes, Northwoods is the best place to experience the sunset on campus. With benches and cement blocks sprinkled throughout, Northwoods offers a little sanctuary from the commotion on campus. If you do venture into Northwoods, please respect our campus and don’t start a fire or litter.
5. Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery
The Tang is staple on Skidmore’s campus. Many artists perform here and it is visited by a variety of Saratoga non-Skidmore residents. A walk through the quiet galleries are an introverts dream, and the concerts on the roof are perfect for extroverts and, truly, everyone in-between.
6. Case Green
Case green is the heart of campus. It’s surrounded by most of the buildings and it’s the perfect place for a nap in between classes and a photo shoot at golden hour.
7. Front of Case Center
These tables offer a variety of services. If you’re not up for the grind of the library, then outside of Case is a great place to get work done at a leisurely pace. Looking up from your work to people watch can help draw inspiration and you’ll never know who will walk past on the walkway. If you can find a table, your only issue will be dodging acorns.
8. Back of Case Center
The best way to describe this spot is serene. It’s underrated by a lot of Skidmore students and so it offers a quiet place to study, meet with a professor, or take in the sunlight before fall completely arrives.
9. View from the Lucy Scribner Library
The Adirondack chairs outside the front of the library are borderline uncomfortable but offer a fantastic view to read and hang out in front of. So, it’s definitely worth a quick (or long) visit.
(Can’t forget the view of Lucy Scribner Library)
10. Wachenheim Field
This field is, honestly, unexceptional during the day. That being said, watching the sunset and the world turn to night is especially picturesque here. The only thing that makes this better is watching games and practices!