Lecture Hall Etiquette: How to Get to your Seat Gracefully

           There is nothing worse than rushing to class, to arrive in one of the big lecture halls, to notice that the only available seat is in the middle of the aisle. We all have panicked trying to figure out the best way to squeeze past an aisle of people. The awkward shuffle, let’s face it, we’ve all done it. So ladies, here’s just a few tips to get your to your seat, as gracefully as possible.

1. Take off your backpack:  I cannot tell you how many times I have seen people knock people out with their backpacks as they try to squeeze through an aisle. Word of advice, before stepping into the aisle remove your backpack and lift it above your arms. Lifting the backpack above your body will allow you to maneuver more easily in the aisle. Plus, this tip will save you from having to apologize to the student you would have hit with your backpack.
2. Walk sideways: The easiest way to maneuver past an aisle of people and desks is to walk sideways. Use the back of the seats in front of you as a grip and gently glide to your seat.
3. Watch out for jackets: Winter brings so many struggles. Many students place their bulky north face jackets on the ground due to the lack of room. If the people in the aisle fail to pick them up before you shuffle in the row, try your best to walk over them. But keep in mind that these jackets can make you slip/fall. I have seen it happen.
4. Politely ask people to move their coffee: Beware ladies, as you are sliding into the aisle make sure to look out for coffee on the ground! Lecture hall desks are so tiny that there is barely any room for a laptop, nevertheless a cup of coffee! Consequently, many students place their coffee on the ground in front of them. If you see a cup of coffee in the middle of your path, politely ask the student if they can pick up the coffee cup before you try to squeeze thru the aisle!