The Irvine campus has decided to put more kids on campus. Great, good, fantastic. Now tell me how the next generation of Anteaters is going to have a better time. I am so down with the fact that these new dorms are gonna be more energy efficient and promote public transportation. However, according to press release, the dorms will only be an extension of the “no socializing” dorm scene that is set up on campus now.

Press Release:

Construction has begun on a $221 million student housing project that combines desirable amenities with many green features.

“With this project, and others, UCI will substantially increase the on-campus residential community. Transforming commuters into residents is one of the greenest actions any campus can take. This project sets the bar for student housing across the nation,” said Wendell Brase, administrative & business services vice chancellor.

The community will optimize energy and water efficiencies and is situated on campus to promote the use of public transportation, bicycles and walkways. Additionally, it will reduce light pollution, waste water and construction waste, and utilize regional materials.

That all sounds really good, but the idea of UC Irvine being a good social scene is still up in the air. At the moment, the school and police force on campus take heavy measures to stifle any strong efforts at “college life” (thus the migration to Newport Beach). And to be honest, I do not see the point of living in these new dorms if that will still be the case. Pay almost 10 g’s a year on housing alone and have no fun at the same time? No thanks.