Over the last two semesters I have had to adjust to many new things associated with college life.

One of the most dramatic changes has been the loss of trust in students.

The university and its administration seem to think the students here are all scholar-by-day and drunk-by-night people.

Maybe a few students are, but the majority of students are here to get an education, not to get drunk.

The university has immensely demonstrated this lack of student trust.

Last fall, the public tailgating area was moved to a lot across Elwood Drive, one of the busiest streets in Ames on game days. I think that this move has endangered students who want to have a good time before and after the games.

Students now have to cross Elwood Drive, taking them away from the game and the atmosphere.

This move has diminished many students’ school spirit.

The risk of having the few students who do drink crossing Elwood Drive and South 16th Street far outweighs the cost of having them around the stadium. Many alumni and fans come to tailgate with the students, the tailgating gets the alumni and fans into the football game, and they have a good time.

Tailgating can also build corporate relationships, letting the students and corporations get acquainted.

These relationships definitely cannot hurt the futures of ISU students.

Barrett Reed

Freshman

Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering