The difficult task of finding rides may soon become easier for many Guilford students.In partnership with the Greensboro Transit Authority, Guilford College now offers a free shuttle to any student with a valid ID wishing to get downtown.

The shuttle runs Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. making stops at the Friendly shopping center, North Carolina A&T University, Tate Street, and Elm Street.

Last year’s First Year advisory board conceived the idea as a means of helping the students get out of “the Guilford Bubble” if they so desired.

“Being at a very small school, it’s important to get people off campus,” said sophomore and board member Genna Cohen. “This is also a great way to get people out into the community.”

The new program may also help to solve the ongoing issue of a surplus of vehicles on campus.

“It may discourage students from bringing cars to school,” said Cohen.

Students seem appreciative of change.

“Coming from Boston where public transportation is such an important part of everyday life,” said sophomore Morgan Duran, “it’s nice to know I have the option here.”

Leslie Moss, the Associate Director of Student Activities, helped oversee the plan and was enthusiastic about the new addition for the 2002-03 year.

Moss stressed the importance of making sure that the students made use of the service.

“If people don’t use it, it will go,” she said pointing out that the trial period only lasts until Thanksgiving vacation (13 weeks). The shuttle program began on Wednesday the 28th.

One concern among the student body, particularly those who frequent the “N Club” was the fact that the last pick-up was too early.

“I’d personally rather stay out later; the shuttle leaves much earlier than I’d prefer,” said Freshman Jonathan Watts.

Others are excited about the shuttle program. “Coming from a big city like Boston where public transportation is such an important part of everyday life,” said sophomore Morgan Durand, “it’s nice to know I have that option here.”