In their presentation for ACUHO-I 2002, the Department of Residence stated, “Students’ input is imperative, but they don’t always know best.”

I could not disagree more. I’ll admit, I may not completely understand the business side of the Department of Residence, the side that needs to make a profit. I have great respect for the position Randy Alexander (or his colleagues) hold, and I am sure “director” is not an easy title to have. However, the Department of Residence is not giving student opinion the full consideration it deserves.

I am not enticed by the bribes of a loft, couch, and other amenities; I already own them — they help to make my current dorm room a home. While some may enjoy an apartment-style home with the conveniences of a meal plan, I am comfortable where I am.

I am bothered the “chance” exists that I may not be able to return to my home. It saddens me that I may not have the opportunity to extend that same warm welcome to the incoming freshmen that the upperclassmen extended to me during my first year here.

Most of all, I feel sorry for the current high school juniors and seniors who are not being told they “might” be forced to leave the dorm atmosphere that contributed to their first year of academic success at Iowa State, just as the upperclassmen before them.

Students, let our voices be heard. Visit the Barker House Web site (http://www.stuorg.iastate.edu/rca-barker/), sign the online petition and urge your friends and family to join the campaign against the 75-25 policy. If not for yourself, do it for the future of Iowa State.

Please, Mr. Alexander, hear our voices. After all, my $5000 is important to business, too.

Heather Reid

Sophomore

Meteorology