The students have spoken, and it turns out that Memorial Union, by quite a margin, is the best building on campus.

It's a good choice, really. The building couldn't take better advantage of its lakefront location, and the wonderful Memorial Union Terrace is as much of an icon of the University of Wisconsin campus as anything else.

It has a long history of hosting influential public speakers, and it's all about providing a relaxing atmosphere for students — instead of lecture halls or discussion sections, students can grab a pitcher of beer and a burger.

Apparently, though, it's not enough for UW students. As you may or may not remember, 6.59 percent of the student body turned out last fall to sign off on a plan that will eventually raise student-segregated fees $192 a year for the next three decades.

For some perspective, segregated fees — which are tacked onto every undergraduate's tuition bill — already amount to more than $700 a year. That student-allocated money funds various student organizations, recreational sports, University Health Services, and — yes, the Wisconsin Union.

It's a good thing we're investing so much money in a building that students clearly can't stand having to deal with.

So hopefully, in 30 years, when The Badger Herald again conducts its glorified Student Choice Awards, the Memorial Union still will be the best building on campus. If not, something obviously went horribly wrong.

In the meantime, drop by Der Rathskellar, grab a pitcher of beer and take it easy. When it gets warmer, move outside to the Terrace and wait for the construction to begin.

Memorial Union: 629 votes

Grainger Hall: 399 votes