Whether it’s the awkward love declarations of second grade or the equally embarrassing phone number listings in college, bathroom graffiti is a constant in any student’s daily life. It’s a contentious issue, with reactions ranging from appreciation to annoyance.
The reasons for using such a curious form of self-expression are still debatable. This is understandable given the variety of messages.
“I think its boredom,” said chemical engineering junior Sheha Seetharama. “Definitely boredom.”
Others think it may be more of a social platform for the less technologically savvy.
“I don’t know, maybe they don’t have a Twitter account? They just need somewhere to post,” said animal science junior Darrian Shelby.
A 2009 report by the New South Wales (NSW) Government Crime Prevention Division stated graffiti and vandalism in general can stem from multiple reasons, including but not limited to art, expression, humor, malicious intent, illegal fame and adrenaline rush.
Although bathroom graffiti is not usually this extreme, it does allow the everyman to ensnare a captive audience with little to no consequence. Messages cover a wide range of topics, from Dr. Seuss verses to social justice hash tags to simple sayings with seemingly no known meaning.
“The best one I’ve seen on campus was ‘Beware the limbo dancer,’” said English junior Katie Babin. “Its still in Tureaud [Hall] I think.”
Perhaps the most bizarre are the messages that offer encouragement or inspiration. Quotes like ‘You are wonderful! :D’ in Tureaud Hall and ‘No matter what you are going through, you are STRONG!’ in the Life Sciences Building appear to be gender specific, popping up more often in women’s restrooms rather than men’s. However, the ladies are not impressed.
“I’m like, this is awkward, why is someone trying to give me confidence while I’m trying to go?” Darrian joked.
Pre-med sophomore Briana McCardle agrees.
“With those I’m thinking somebody had too much time,” McCardle said.
Regardless of whether bathroom graffiti is inspiring, many students at least find it amusing. Students interviewed admitted that while they had never partaken in it they still found it entertaining.
“I think its pretty funny, I like artistic stuff and it helps break up the monotony of your everyday routine.” Babin said.
However, it’s not humorous for everyone. Stacy L. Whitfield, assistant director of Facility Services, explains that it’s not fun and games for those who have to clean up the mess.
“It ends up being a nuisance. The paint wears off when the custodians remove the graffiti depending on what the students write it in. Then we have to send people in to paint.”
Tammy Millican, assistant director at the Office of Facility Services, explains that this wastes time and supplies.
“It’s a use of resources that we could be using elsewhere on campus,” Millican said.