I began this experiment with the intention of examining the conversations of random strangers sitting in the Perkins lounge, though it turned into something much more. There were four main interactions that I noticed. The first were the interactions between the employees at Dunkin’ Donuts. They were laughing and joking around with each other in a fun-loving way that seemed to put everyone in the area at ease. I saw several of the people in line cracking smiles and laughing along with the staff making their drinks. Then, I saw two friends deeply engrossed in what seemed to be a riveting conversation. They were fully engaged with one another. No electronic devices, just two people enjoying their time together. Then, I saw a group of friends studying. This one was very interesting to me as all of their phones and laptops were out in front of them. This did seem to make a difference. There were several times when I glanced over and the one friend would be telling a story and the other two would be deeply focused on their computers. Sometimes it seemed as though they weren’t hearing the other person at all even though they were less than a foot from them.

The fourth and final one was the most fascinating one to me as it was the interaction I myself ended up having. As I was watching strangers talk to each other from my table, I realized one of my friends was doing some studying a table over from me. He called me over and introduced me to his friend that he was with. This fifteen-minute experiment turned into an almost four-hour-long conversation about classes, relationships, food, and so much more. And while we all had our devices with us, we didn’t use them. 

This exercise reminded me of something I already knew: phones can distract from what’s right in front of you. The people who I saw not using any devices seemed to be truly open and enjoying themselves on a deeper level that everyone around them could feel. While those on their computers or phones seemed shut down and closed off. I’m not saying we should stop using our electronics altogether. However, I do think it’s important for us to know when and where to use them. How to put them down and enjoy the moments with the people right in front of you. 

  • Brianna O’Doherty