As a columnist, I spend a lot of time harping on things the University should change. However, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight some things they’ve done right lately.

I recently realized that the University has gotten around to lighting the Dan Allen parking deck at night. I’m not really sure why this hadn’t been done before, but the eco-friendly LCD overhead lights are very bright, and presumably deter not only muggers but also the people who have been stealing catalytic converters, as you can see into the deck from the road. As Dan Allen is a main thoroughfare from Hillsborough Street to Western Boulevard, this was definitely a welcome improvement.

The extended hours at the Hill of Beans coffee shop are also wonderful. You can now get hot caffeine until 1 a.m. from Sundays until Thursdays. My grades reflect the extended hours, even if my sleep cycle doesn’t.

Also in the library is the nifty little television at the entrance that tells you how many computers are open at each lab on each floor. I can’t tell you how annoying it used to be going from floor to floor trying to find an open computer. This convenience definitely saves time, which is something I don’t have enough of to waste.

Another great thing happening on campus is the renovation of the Atrium and Talley. The patio outside the Atrium may be missing a few trash cans, but I’m not afraid the tables are going to break when I sit down. Carpeting the floor in Talley Student Center has made such a difference in the space – it’s unbelievable. These are two places that students spend a lot of time in, and the renovations are gratefully noticed.

The online appointment feature of the Student Health web site has made it a little easier to fit personal health into a busy schedule. By allowing students to make an appointment at 3 a.m. during downtime in a World of Warcraft raid, it reaches people who would otherwise not bother with the trivialities of health or food.

Adding the Port City Java in Nelson Hall is also a nice addition. Considering that the Court of North Carolina is lacking in food and drink options, however, it may have been more prudent to put it on that side of campus. Either way, no one is going to complain about more coffee options, and diversifying the businesses on campus is a great continued effort on the University’s part.

Even though as a columnist I often discuss things I wish the University would change, I also recognize the efforts they are putting into making our college experience be the best it can. As part of the Wolfpack, we all need to make a collaborative effort towards N.C. State continuing to be innovative, safe, and generally all-around awesome.

E-mail Catie your thoughts on University improvements to letters@technicianonline.com.