Haunted University

You follow a long line of cars off the main road and onto campus. Your dad, eyes forward, hands gripping the wheel, begins a litany of complaints about the poor planning.

"In my day, people were sensible," he says. "In my day, we were told when classes started, and as long as you were there in time for your first class, that was good enough."

"People also used to smoke in lectures back in your day," your mom quips.

"And in hospitals," you add, unable to resist.

Your dad grumbles a bit more, then falls silent.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, you arrive at the designated drop-off point. Your dad puts the car in park, switches on the four-way flashers, and gets out to open the trunk. Your mom exits the car on the same side as you, and before you know what's happening, has her arms wrapped around you in a tight embrace.

"Mom!" you groan, embarrassed.

"All grown up," your mom says, ignoring you. "I can't believe you're already in college!"

"Honey. You're embarrassing the poor kid," your dad chides, but there's an uncharacteristic gruffness in his voice too.

You hurriedly break free, pausing just long enough to give your dad a quick hug, before you gather up your belongings and running to join the long line of students waiting to be checked in.

"Love you," your mom says.

"Love you, too," you back over your shoulder.

By the time you catch your breath, you're three from the front, and you deem it's safe enough to risk a backward glance. Your parents' car is gone. You are, for the first time in your adult life, really and truly alone.

"Next!"

The voice startles you. Without realizing it, the line's advanced without you, and you've inadvertently become the center of attention for the small cluster of students and parents around you.

"Sorry!" you say, and step forward.

Only, you're faced with a dilemma. There are multiple volunteers manning this particular check-in desk, and now that it's your turn to be helped, three of them have become available simultaneously. Without further direction, it's up to you to decide which volunteer to approach.