By Michelle Jamrisko Cavalier Daily Associate Editor
A sea of bikini-clad tanning enthusiasts has flooded the Old Dorms quad for the past few days, thanks to a recent climb in temperatures.
While some students are anxious to soak up the sun, others are finding the seasonal trend a little distracting.
"It's hard as hell to get work done with all these girls in bikinis everywhere," said first-year Engineering student Dave Robertson.
First-year Engineering student Andrew Damon said he supports the girls lying out in the quad, as he believes natural tanning is the best method.
Second-year College student Andia Nadimi agreed.
"I think natural tanning looks better -- it's not as orange," she said.
Those who frequent the tanning beds, rather than the natural method, may be shocked to learn that the harmful rays from the Ultraviolet A light sources in tanning salons are two to three times more powerful than the UVA rays from the sun, according to www.womenshealth.about.com.
First-year College student Kathryn Sands said that while she has been to the tanning bed once, she is concerned with the negative health issues involved with the "fake 'n' bake" habit.
Still, other students said they can't resist the convenience of the tanning salons.
"It's just easier and faster," said first-year College student Brenna Seufert.
Although the light rays in tanning booths are considered more damaging than exposure to the sun, those that favor natural tanning are also at risk of becoming one of the one million people annually diagnosed with skin cancer, as reported by www.womenshealth.about.com.
Nadimi recommended that fellow students use Banana Boat tanning oil, SPF 8, to prevent burning, while first-year College student Tara McKnight suggested Hawaiian tropic tanning oil.
Sands emphasized the importance of applying sunscreen to one's face.
Some students point out that despite the risks of spending too much time in the sun, the densely populated quad is the result of several different motivations.
First-year Engineering student Joe Carr said he thinks that many lying out in the quad are trying to be productive.
"They just like to sit out in the sun -- most of them read," he said.
Sands said she simply enjoys relaxing in the warm weather.
"I just like being outside," she said.
Read More
Holding onto every grain in the hourglass
By Mai Hukuoka | 6 hours agoNow that I’m back at school, I have made it my mission to take note of the sneaky passage of time.
Students brave the cold for a whirlwind sorority rush
By Mia Tan | 2 days agoStudents recount a mix of emotions from rush, with some disappointed after dropping from the recruitment process and others ecstatic to join Greek life.
Top 10 ways to avoid burnout this semester
By Sam Saks | 3 days agoAs you settle into this semester, try implementing these 10 tactics to take care of yourself and wave goodbye to burnout.
