What's Up With That?!

 

We struggle to find the balance between right and wrong in modern society. Debating what’s fair vs. what’s not. We abide by laws rules and regulations. Yet on our small University campus we cannot seem to figure out the details of everyday occurrences. The lines are blurred here at this University between irony and political garb. Who is to really say what is right or wrong? It is after all a matter of opinion and as we all know everyone has one.

 

By now we are all very well aware of the budget cuts this year affecting the faculty and causing a decrease in salary. Yes, it is unfortunate and ethically, the school should be doing everything in its power to create a smooth transition for the staff. Aiding in any way possible, creating opportunities and support. Our teachers are amazing. Most of us share that opinion at least. However, one situation just doesn’t seem right. The teachers are expected to support our schools sports programs and all programs for that matter, but they must pay full price admission to games and events. There is no discount? What’s up with that?!

 

Classes at SOU are sometimes a real pain to get into. You have to fight your way in kicking and screaming, begging and pleading and going through all of the necessary hoops. If you register late…good luck because you’re probably not getting in. Though, there are some of us that get priority registration and they just so happen to be the school-sponsored athletes. They have priority to get into the classes of their choice and usually pass with a “C” average. And let’s be honest here, how many of them actually attend regularly? Now don’t get your Under Armour in a bunch, I do have great respect for those of you out there who are working hard through school keeping good grades and attending practice religiously. Please do not take offense. But to the rest of you, why should others who maintain an outstanding grade point average and go to class every day to learn, yes learn, get the shaft on class preferences? What’s up with that?!

 

During this rainy season, if a student wants to step out for some fresh air…well forget about it unless you want to inhale a pack of cigarettes via second-hand. I don’t have anything against smokers, but my goodness can we get some covered area on campus.

 

The little area that we have is so close to the entrances of the building you literally have to walk through the smoke. There’s hardly a place to keep dry outside, and yet we keep putting money into programs that aren’t giving anything back. The school is covering costs of scholarships, travel expenses, etc. for some programs that aren’t doing so hot, while others who are excelling are left to their own vices. Again, I must ask…what’s up with that?!

 

There are many other things on campus that leave us with the same question again and again. I ask you, when these questions arise and you are feeling strongly about a subject, look into it. Get involved and talk about it. If we don’t say something then no one will and we have to deal with the hand that we are given. Speak your concerns, talk to the student body government, the dean or the president of student affairs. Who knows, maybe we will even find some more ways for students to receive discounts in highly frequented businesses in Ashland and Medford. What’s up with that?!