Staff writer's view of college life ignores consequences

submitted by Melissa Murray

April 2, 2007 —

The article "Students should enjoy college" was not just disturbing, but absurd. As a junior at SVSU, I feel that I have enjoyed my college experience thus far, and I have not had to do any "asinine, screwed up, silly thing" during my years on campus. Though I am a so-called "big kid" now, I do feel that I can do whatever I want, but I would not suggest staying up until six in the morning or cheating on my boyfriend at a frat party.

The author claims "whatever you choose, it isn't wrong, and don't let anyone tell you it is." I would strongly disagree with this statement. One cannot just go do whatever they want and expect it all to be right. As a third year student, I have gone to my fair share of parties, and pulled a few all-nighters with friends, and now I am paying for it by retaking classes I failed during that time in my life. Though one may choose to do whatever they want because they're in college, there are consequences for those actions.

The author blatantly bashes those students living on campus by stating that it is okay for us to enjoy studying, quiet nights, and going to bed early, but she hopes people like us do not live on campus because these things do not happen very often. I soundly disagree with this assertion because I have lived on campus for three years, and the University enforces quiet hours for those people that want to have a quiet night for studying and going to bed early.

The author also tells her audience not to be an alcoholic, drug user, or fail out of college, but contradicts herself by stating that we're college students and we can do whatever we want. She then states that if we can't handle a life of parties, sex, and cheating, we should leave college promptly.

Nicole Goddeyne, I don't know what kind of student you are, but encouraging behavior like this on a college campus is a very bad idea. You simply explain the fun about going to college and ignore the fact that there are consequences for those actions.

Also, you shouldn't put down those students living on campus. Most students live on campus to do well in school, as opposed to drinking and staying up until six in the morning like you claim.

Melissa Murray Student