Parking permits may all look the same, but student drivers come in all shapes and sizes.

Parking permits at Oak Park High School are usually given to upperclassmen who have pursued the necessary hours to gain a driver’s license. But, even if a student has a parking permit, it does not guarantee a front of the lot spot.

“Although it’s a bit annoying to have to park farther away since I get to school later, I still think it’s better than having assigned parking,” junior Kathleen Dryden said.

Oak Park High School has a first come, first serve basis for parking spots. However, most students do have a favorite spot or area that they frequent. While there is no assigned parking, Associated Student Body raffles off hot spots which are parking spots in front of the band room.

“Also, I think something that would be fun would be to auction off about 20 assigned parking spots for seniors where those people can personally paint their own parking spot of their choice and park there for the whole year,” Dryden said.

The parking lot is often a hang out for many students. Whether it be to talk before going out for lunch or a place to eat lunch, the parking lot is a puzzle that often changes color and shape everyday. It’s not likely to see the same car parked next to you three days in a row, especially if you take zero period.

“I remember when I had to park in sophomore circle 2 years ago and had to walk up the hill every morning! While the parking lot can be busy at times, I’m glad as an upperclassman I am able to find a parking spot every morning,” senior Morgan Snyder said.