Bus Etiquette

Etiquette is behavior that is socially accepted in a given situation. I can imagine how some may question why it is necessary to restrict our behavior because of others' opinions of what is acceptable and what is not. Besides, why should we care what other people think, right? Well, I'll tell you why. The etiquette basics show that you respect others. How you act towards others reflects your manners and a part of who you are.

During my bus rides to campus, I've noticed a need for people to touch up on their bus etiquette. I realize some people don't realize the things they do is quite annoying, but here they are:

- Taking up too much space, particularly guys.
I found myself sitting in between two guys on the bus one day. It was the last seat, and I had to squeeze myself in. Both of the guys moved their legs for me to sit, but once I was sitting they went back to where they were. I accept the fact that females are generally more compact in posture and males are more spread out, but in a cramped bus both of the guys could have moved their legs together a little bit. They looked like they were sitting watching a football game in their living room. Why do they get more space than I do? Should I have sat the same way and nudge them over? I don't really like touching strangers, though. Ew. Be a little more considerate, guys. Give people some space!

- No Sex in the City talk on the bus, please.
This applies to males and females. Strangers don't want to hear about your personal, intimate life on their way to school or work. Only your best friend should listen to that.

- Why are you yelling? I'm sitting right next to you.
Carry all the conversations you want with your friend, but please keep your voice down. Talking loudly distracts others, whether they're reading the paper, studying, or resting on the bus.

I am, however, guilty of bad manners too. I realized this when I was watching a dating show on tv. A guy was interviewing two girls to date his brother. Throughout the whole interview, he had a music headphone in one of his ears! That was SO rude. Then, I realized that I do that too. There have been times when I have headphones on and turn down the music to listen to someone talk. I can hear them fine, but they see me with headphones on while "listening" to them. I'm sure they think differently than I did. Although my ipod have got me through many bus rides, I tear out both headphone ear pieces when I'm talking with someone now. Be comfortable on your way to campus, but don't forget to be considerate of others while on the bus.