Scene Setting

The Suite Life of Emerson College Students

Gorgeous couches and chairs are just part of the lavish décor that fills the lobby. Luxurious chandeliers and light fixtures hang from the ceiling. The large, beautiful plants add to the splendor of the already magnificent room. Amidst ionic columns, I take a seat on a Victorian style plush couch. Across from me is the Encore Lounge Piano Bar. While I sit on the couch, I notice all of the people that enter the room.
A man walks in with a duffle bag and a suitcase and heads over to the front desk “Checking in, room 1522,” he says. The fifteenth floor is the “business floor.” He must be a businessman who is traveling for his work. Two more men walk in wearing suits. Presumably, they are also businessmen. They are followed by a bellhop dressed in full uniform. He wheels a large gold cart full of expensive looking luggage. Another man saunters in and enters The Roxy nightclub through the back entrance. Perhaps he works for one of the bands that will be playing in the club. Perhaps he is even someone famous. This guess isn’t too far off, considering that just a couple of months ago, Jason Mraz stayed on the sixth floor. After that, a couple more employees walk by. Then, it gets a little strange.
Two teenagers walk by carrying large backpacks. They talk about their classes. They’re not heading to class, but to their temporary dorm room at The Courtyard Marriott on Tremont Street. If you are wondering why these students are staying in the hotel, there is a perfectly good answer. When Emerson College ran out of room in their two dormitory buildings, they were forced to place 150 students in two area hotels. Some people may consider this an inconvenience, but the hotels are only a couple of blocks away from the buildings on campus. In many respects, the 50 students living in the Marriott are very lucky. Imagine going away to college and living in a hotel. This includes a full-sized bed and maid service. Life is pretty sweet for the Courtyard kids, or the “Yardies,” as they like to be called.