Common courtesy suggestions for campus shuttles

We all know at least one of them—loud cell phone talkers.

We have all heard it, possibly in an elevator or a waiting room, maybe even on a bus.

“Shut up, girl! No he didn’t really say that?”

Regardless of the topic, we are often breathlessly wondering just what the person on the other end is saying.

OK, well, not exactly. The truth is, it’s annoying. And it grows exponentially more annoying in smaller spaces, such as the bus. So, loud cell phones talkers, on behalf of the rest of us—those who respectfully keep to texting and quietude—please, shut up.

It’s the right thing to do, some Wichita State students on the charter bus said.

Well, maybe they didn’t exactly say it that way. But it was certainly a common theme in the suggestions they gave. Talking too loudly on the phone is rude and considered bad bus etiquette.

“I think bus etiquette is generally similar to movie theater etiquette,” said sophomore Jordan Lauer, who rode the bus for the first time Monday. Lauer had yet to encounter any problems, but said talking too loudly would be bad etiquette.

Bus driver Silvia Pavlovich echoed the sentiment—loud talking and foul language are inconsiderate. However, things have gone smoothly for Pavlovich since the buses started running. She hasn’t had any issues with passengers, but she reminded us to be courteous to others.

For some, like freshman Emily Hoover, being courteous meant respecting others’ personal space. After being leaned on repeatedly without consideration earlier in the day, Hoover wished others would be more aware of their surroundings, especially around turns.

While many students politely gave suggestions about what’s considered courteous behavior, it was senior Aaron Wyckstandt who offered, then demonstrated, his suggestion.

“Practice common courtesy, which isn’t so common anymore,” Wyckstandt said. “Maybe have a little conversation.”

He followed through with small talk about the weather, his hometown and life in general, all complete with a nice-to-meet-you handshake, an oft forgotten gesture.

So, ladies and gents, to recap—when on the bus, don’t be “that guy” talking loudly, cursing like a sailor, and leaning all over people you don’t know. Do give your seats to the pregnant, elderly or injured, and maybe even to a lady. Chivalry doesn’t have to be dead, lads. Respect personal space and make friends.