No matter where one turns these days, there is a high chance of seeing someone on an electric scooter. Whether it be on main campus, dorm hallways, the Bell Center, Coates library or even the outlying parts of Trinity’s campus.

In many urban cities, electric scooters have become conveyances. Lime, Bird, and other scooter companies have created a very popular way to transport people using a fun-loving childhood accessory. E-scooters in many cities offer affordable and accessible rides for people no matter their experience with riding a scooter.

Since the beginning of the semester, many students have ditched their bikes, skateboards and even walking in favor of scooters as their mode of transportation around campus. The most common brands of these scooters being used on campus are Razor and GOTRAX Electric Scooter.

Sophomore Pierce Jackson mentioned that his scooter originally was meant for being able to meet up with his friends, but over time he started using it more frequently.

“I am living in Calvert this year. Meaning that everyone else in my grade is across campus in Prassel or Thomas. I originally got my scooter for convenience when visiting them but later began to ride it more and more,” said Jackson.

One of the original scooter owners on campus is sophomore Braxton Barry. Last year, Barry had his scooter with him at all times and would ride his scooter up and down the halls of his freshman dorm in Robert R. Witt-Carleton R. Winn Hall (Witt-Winn). He shared that his scooter was gifted to him at Christmas. Barry charges his scooter in his room with a small portable charger, always making sure it’s ready to go. He also shared that the best part of having his scooter is the ability to get from one side of campus to the other within minutes.

“I do feel like it helps me get to class quicker. I pretty much bring it to every class now. But I do also use it for enjoyment as well since there is kind of a little group of us with scooters so we like to race and ride around,” said Barry.

One scooting student, sophomore Azariah Anderson, named the community of scooter riders on campus the “scooter commuters.” Anderson shared that he loves to see other scooter commuters around whether it be to class or while making trips to Mabee Dining Hall.

“I take my scooter everywhere … I have traveled to local coffee shops and fast-food places all in the surrounding area of Trinity,” said Anderson.

Anderson is also on the football team and shared that because he is a student-athlete, his scooter helps him manage his time better. Many scooter owners that were interviewed were student-athletes as well. Anderson also stated that he is able to commute to his classes and other commitments in only five to ten minutes. The benefits of having his scooter go beyond enjoyment purposes. These benefits, according to Anderson, include less physical strain on his body as well as the environmental perk of reducing emissions.

The impact of electric scooters has seeped its way into the lives of many youths as well. Other universities in Texas like the University of Texas in Austin, are covered with Lime scooters for students to use, especially considering it is located in the heart of the city. Although Trinity has a more private campus feel, students have taken it upon themselves to bring their own resources to campus and make their experience more enjoyable and convenient.

In addition, the layout of Trinity’s campus allows for scooter-friendly riding zones, which include space for students to enjoy going to class and having fun with their friends. The rise of these scooters has even made many students consider buying one for themselves. It may be likely that after Christmas this year, even more students will show up with their very own electric scooters!