University students are redefining the term “hanging out.”
A blazing sun suspended in midair accentuated by the cool spring breeze only means one thing for graphic design sophomore Erik Scharff – it’s time to relax in his hammock. Scharff said he assesses the weather each morning to decide if he’s going to clip his compact hammock case to his side to start his day.
“If it’s a nice day outside, I just grab my hammock and bring it with me,” Scharff said.
With suitable weather, Scharff then scopes out a shaded area and fastens his hammock to the sturdiest tree in sight. He said the setup process takes about two to three minutes, and even less time with the help of a friend.
Scharff got the idea to start using a hammock in boarding school, which he said shared a strong resemblance to the University. After developing an appreciation for Louisiana weather, he decided to bring his hammock to college.
“I just decided one day that I wanted to bring my hammock up. It’s beautiful outside,” Scharff said.
Scharff said he first started using his hammock behind his freshman residence hall, Herget Hall, but he has recently ventured out into more visible areas. Now, he said he frequents areas like the Parade Ground, West Campus Apartments and the Quad.
“The Quad was a big step,” he said. “It was probably the most visible place I’ve been.”
University students have been taking notice to the seemingly rare hammock sighting on campus, Scharff said. He said he often gets flattering remarks from surprised onlookers.
“I’ve had people come up to me and say, ‘Hey this is a great idea,’ and they’ll ask to take pictures of me,” Scharff said.
He said he once found a picture of him in his hammock posted to Facebook by a person he didn’t even know.
Depending on the brand, the cost of a hammock could range from about $50 to $100. Scharff said he got his for a discounted price at an outdoor store in his hometown.
He said he recommends every student buy a hammock, as it provides both comfort and a unique place to do work.
“I do everything from study to talking with friends and relaxing,” he said.
Daniel Azibnnan, economics sophomore, said he views hanging in his hammock as a viable alternative to plainly sitting around between classes.
“It’s really peaceful and definitely calming – just laying outside reading, napping or listening to music.” Azibnnan said. “It’s a chance to have some alone time.”
Azibnnan said he has always enjoyed being outside, and he tries to spend at least an hour a day enjoying the scenery of campus in his hammock. He said he also recommends others buy a hammock since they are convenient and portable.
But not everyone shares his sentiments.
Fred Fellner, assistant director for Landscape Services, said he doesn’t recommended students hang in hammocks, as it could be detrimental to public safety and in violation of University policy.
“From a physiological standpoint there will be no issue, but there may be an issue from an aesthetic perspective and also it may be against general policy statement.” Fellner said.
Fellner said the University does not condone students posting or hanging anything on public property, and hammocks could possibly fall under that category. He also said that although the activity seems benign, it poses major liability issues.
He said both benches and “green spaces” are provided for students to occupy.
Azibnnan said hanging hammocks are harmless, as he always is cautious of the height at which he chooses to hang the net.
While Scharff said he understands that hammocks are not for everyone, he said it fits his laid-back attitude. He urged everyone to enjoy his or her time in sun, even if it’s not spent suspending mid-air in a hammock.
“When it’s cool outside and beautiful – be outside and enjoy yourself.” He said. “And that’s what I’m doing in my hammock.”
 
____ Contact David Jones at [email protected]