Friday, October 6th, 2023, was the new opening of the Wilkerson Quad. There is a new landing zone built next to the residence halls. The Wilkerson Quad is between Brannon, McVey, and West. There was a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 3:30 pm. I asked the officials at the ceremony if there would be additional features to this space, and they informed me that a sand volleyball pit may be added in the future. There is a long sidewalk that is in the shape of a circle that connects Brannon, Mcvey, and West. Along with the sidewalk, there were chairs and tables adjacent to the entrances for gathering and study spaces. In the spring, I have a feeling this will be a very popular study spot because there is a huge circle in the middle of the sidewalk that is fresh grass for people to study, as well as the chairs and tables on the sidewalk. 

Afterwards, we were also allowed to tour the new halls. That was my favorite part. I have never been inside McVey, Brannon, or West previously, so I enjoyed walking through them. They all have wonderful amenities including games and comfy chairs. Brannon had a very nice section for students to hang out in, a student space with multiple couches and a pool table. In McVey, the elevators are spotless and there are lots of study places for students. Another bonus feature of these dorms was the kitchen. The kitchens in every one of these dorms were very spacious and provided well-maintained cooking utensils for the students to use in the dorms. Overall, I think the Wilkerson Quad is a great resource for students to use to study. I think this will be a very popular place in the spring or fall when there is no snow, so people can be outside and enjoy the weather. 

Emma Arteaga is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected].