The new year and a new semester come with challenges and responsibilities.

And students should take an active part in these challenges and responsibilities. The Daily Collegian Board of Opinion has some suggestions for increased student involvement this semester:

-- The 1999 Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon. Last year, Thon raised more than $2 million for the Four Diamonds Fund. We hope Thon will continue to grow in participants and fund-raising. It is important that the whole university joins in this deserving cause by contributing time, resources and fund-raising.

-- Undergraduate Student Government Elections. USG has been plagued with internal problems that have led to resignations and arrests. With an election in the near future, USG can diversify its membership so that it represents its constituents better. To do this, it is imperative that students are active in the election process. Students should vote responsibly, and candidates should have platforms that students care about.

Meanwhile, USG President Caroline Casagrande and Vice President Brian Olivo should try to fulfill the promises they made last year. Lowering Loop costs and improving care at University Health Services were centerpieces of their campaign. Additionally, as expanding Ritenour services was a second-semester goal, we want to see what USG is going to do to complete their end of the deal.

-- State College Borough Council actions. The council seeks to prevent disturbances such as the July 12 riot. In the upcoming months, the council will decide whether to limit the heights of downtown buildings, which could affect housing availability for students. The council's judgments, however, rarely reflect student views. Therefore, students must attend council meetings to be heard.

-- State appropriations. Through education and research, Penn State affects the quality of life across the state. The state should take this into account as it deliberates on funding for the university. As costs continue to rise, state legislators should make it a priority that Penn State is an affordable, quality institution.

We are 40,000 students strong and a moving force in the local economy. As the reason behind Penn State, we hope State College and the administration respects our individual rights and realizes our importance to this community.

It's time for students to acknowledge their responsibility and become active members of the community.