During the winter vacation, the U-space (first floor of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences) was under construction. Originally used as a place for students to relax and study, the lighting, space, and atmosphere of the U-space changed significantly during the construction. The number of students visiting the U-space has also increased significantly. To find out what U-space users think about the changes, we interviewed Kim Yeon-woo, a 22nd-year student in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development.

1. Please introduce yourself.

Yoonwoo Kim I'm Yeonwoo Kim, a 22nd year student in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development at Seoul National University. Nice to meet you.

2. How much do you use U-space on a daily basis?

I usually spend most of my time at CALS(College of Agriculture and Life Sciences), especially when I have to study with my friends or do teamwork.

3. Do you use U-space differently before and after the change?

Definitely. The size of the space has expanded a lot, and there are more types of seats. There are various types of place depending on the usage environment, such as standing study tables and sofas, so I think it is much more accessible than before.

4. What do you usually use U-space for?

I usually use U-space when I need to study something very intensively by myself, or when I want to have a conversation with my friends. I think I often use it when I need to do something together, especially during exams when I'm sleepy and want to study standing up, or during exams when I want to concentrate because U-space has a quiet atmosphere where everyone is studying together.

5. What do you like about the new U-space?

First of all, the space is spacious and comfortable. It's much brighter than the old U-space, and there are a lot of different seats. Previously, there was only a space to sit or lie down, but now there are various types of seats. Furthermore, since the U-space is wider, CALS students gather and study together, so I think it helps to form an identity as a CALS student.

6. What would you like to see improved in the new U-space?

Classical music is playing in U-space now, and I would like to survey the satisfaction of students about this part. I think it should be investigated the satisfaction of the students on this point. Obviously, some people think that the music is disturbing, and some people feel that the music helps to create an atmosphere, but I think it is necessary to listen to the opinions of the students. Similarly, I think we need to survey the opinions on the food and drink ban in U-space. I understand that food and drink are currently prohibited due to cleanliness issues, but it seems that the rule is not well enforced because people often want to have snacks or drinks when they study. I'm not aware of any administrative issues, but I think there needs to have effort to listen to and coordinate the thoughts of the students and the administrators regarding this rule. It would be great if the rule could be reorganized in a more realistic way.