For many students, driving is integral to the high school experience. Once students obtain their driver’s licenses, the next step is to secure a parking permit at UHS and start parking on campus. From the Junior Lot to Rockview Drive, there are various locations where UHS students can park. In this article, we will evaluate and rate each parking spot.
- The Main Junior Lot
The Junior Lot corresponds to parking spaces at the front of the school and the Big Gym. Four long rows of parking spaces are designated for students, and one staff row is at the front. There is a large amount of parking available to students within this area. The main benefit of this parking option is that it is right next to the Culver Drive entrance, reducing the amount of traffic in the morning. However, leaving the Junior Lot in the afternoon is much more difficult, as the placement of the Junior Lot in relation to the parking lot’s exit causes high amounts of traffic to build up during the after-school rush. Additionally, this lot is the furthest away from classes than other on-campus locations, with no classrooms nearby. This location may be a decent option for students in sports due to its proximity to the lockers and sports courts. Overall, the Junior Lot is the weakest option compared to other parking spots on campus, earning a 4/10 rating.
- The Side Lot
The Side Lot, the smallest of the parking spots on this list, is located near the main office and 200s building. While its smaller size makes it more challenging to find a space, there are usually spots available in the morning. Some parking spots are under the solar panels, making them an excellent option for keeping your car cool and shaded. While slightly inconvenient in the morning, parking in the Side Lot is beneficial in the afternoon. Thanks to the two exit zones close to the Side Lot, leaving campus from this location is relatively easy, making the side lot a great option for students in a rush. Positioned near the 200 and 700 buildings, this lot is an especially optimal choice for students with classes there. With no significant downsides, the Side Lot is an underrated parking spot option, earning an overall rating of 9/10.
- The Senior Lot
The Senior Lot wraps around the 300 and 400 buildings and contains two to four rows where students can park. Unlike other options on this list, the Senior Lot is dedicated exclusively to student parking, making it the largest parking area on campus. There are always spots for students here, even with later arrival times and open periods. Another benefit of the Senior Lot is its proximity to most classroom buildings, making it a convenient option for many students. However, the Senior Lot does have one major drawback: traffic, which is caused by the fact that it only has one main entrance. Traffic in the Senior Lot is especially difficult to navigate in the mornings and can also be an issue during lunch and after school. However, the Senior Lot is still a solid choice and gets an 8/10 rating.
- Rockview Drive
For students waiting on a parking permit or choosing not to get one, Rockview Drive is the only legal off-campus parking option. Rockview Drive extends along a relatively long road, providing plenty of space for students. While there is much less traffic here than the on-campus parking areas, the main negative of choosing to park at Rockview Drive is the distance from UHS. Rockview Drive is about a three to five-minute walk from UHS, which may not be ideal for students who run late in the mornings. Due to this, Rockview Drive receives a 5/10 rating, although it is a good choice for students who do not wish to obtain a parking permit.
UHS offers a variety of parking spots, allowing students to pick the option that works best for them. While none of these spots are perfect for everyone, they all have advantages that may make them the ideal choice, depending on the student. If you are a new driver and unsure which spot to park in, this list is a great place to start.
