To be a dorm or not to be a dorm? That is the question. That question was answered by conference services last April when they turned Lathrop Hall into a hotel for UAF's staff and friends.

In order to stay in Lathrop Hall a patron must be either a prospective student, a parent or friend of a student, athletic team, or a student or faculty member from UA campuses and state entities.

Lathrop hall was becoming a waste of supplies and resources as a dorm so conference services was going to close it down to save money in light of the increase in cost and utilities. There were only a few residents in the hall itself, just six or seven people. "Even if it was to reopen for this fall semester as a dorm there would not have an resident advisor, because the hall's R.A. was not coming back," said Amber Kagman, who is the head of housing for conferences. She was the fighting force that wanted Lathrop Hall to house the guests that stay on campus, especially during the winter.

The decision of changing Lathrop Hall to a hotel took a few weeks in April because conference services had to find out if Vice Chancellor Barnett was in agreement. After permission was given, the rooms started to change, becoming more like those of a hotel. Some rooms have coffee makers and televisions and some only have a bed and blankets. The rooms start at $30 for a single person. Two people have to pay $40 for the basic amenities. If you want more services, one person is $38 and for two people $48 a night. People who stay longer than 14 days receive a discount, however these rooms are not meant for long-term accommodation.

The money that Lathrop Hall generates goes back to conference services, which funnels the money directly into the residence life pool. This keeps the cost of living down for campus residents. Lathrop Hall has transformed from a nearly empty dorm to a lively hotel that can house campus guests and bring them comfort away from home. This is what the University of Alaska strives to bring its guests and students, a home away from home.