This past Saturday, I had a wonderful time learning about the secrets of West Campus. Led by Professor Blalock, the tour comprised of learning about Ezra Cornell’s background and West Campus’s history as well as exploring Noyes, the War Memorial Room, and the tunnel adjoining Rose and Becker.

The prospect of visiting the secret tunnel was what motivated me to participate in the tour. However, the information that Professor Blalock imparted to us was as fascinating, if not more, than the mysterious tunnel. I found the War Memorial Room in Lyon Hall particularly interesting. As someone who visits Lyon Hall, I had wondered about what the room contained. In the room, there were furniture and an enumeration of the Cornellians who had lost their lives in war. Above the names was a painting of two angels. As I stood in the room, I felt a wave of pride for our school for having had such brave and devoted students.

Moreover, I learned from Professor Blalock about how the West Campus Housing system came to fruition. It was eye-opening to hear that the five West Campus Houses were deliberately created to become an all-inclusive place that not only provided housing, but also offered a collaborative community that eliminated intangible walls among students. This is different from the residential communities of other Ivy Leagues such as Harvard and Yale, where the “small-village” experience can be constricting.

Lastly, after we visited Becker, Professor Blalock led us to the tunnel that connects Rose House and Becker House. I had always wondered how food is transported to Rose’s kitchen, especially since I never saw a food delivery truck by the House. When in the tunnel, Professor Blalock explained that delivery trucks arrive at the Becker loading dock, where the food is transported to Rose House through the tunnel.

Overall, the tour was very fun and I learned a lot about the more obscure facts about West Campus. I highly appreciate the knowledge that Professor Blalock shared with us!