"Without friends no one would choose to live, though he had all other goods."

These are insightful words from the wise philosopher Aristotle. After the jail-suicide of freshman Timothy Kulp, a few things should be stated about the importance of friends.

Adjusting to college-life can be hard for anyone. Although Timothy suffered from depression, moving away from home and starting school can be problematic and demanding events to even a "healthy" individual.

Meeting new people is also a difficult part in the transition. A new buddy system for incoming students may help ease this transition and reduce the high stress levels that come with a new school year. With this buddy system, a returning student would be paired with a freshman and would be a mentor and friend.

This could be a community service of student groups, perhaps the Residence Hall Associations. Companionship seems to be what Kulp sought, for the complaint states that Kulp was "looking for someone to hold and love," and "just wanted to be with someone." I did not know Kulp on a personal level and I do not condone his actions. I also do not know what he really wanted when he entered those women's dorm rooms.

I do know, however, that friends are necessary and play an important role in a student's development, especially during the freshman year.

We should take the advice of Madame de Tencin and "Never refuse any advance of friendship, for if nine out of ten bring you nothing, one alone may repay you."