Independent?

Not anymore.

The College of Communications now has a hand in the previously student run radio station 90.7 WKPS-FM.

The University Park Allocation Committee cut the station's funding by about 80 percent last year, forcing the station to look elsewhere for the finances that would allow them to stay on the air.

The College of Communications is now in charge. To that effect they have hired a station manager, apparently without the knowledge of all the student staff.

Boundaries and agreements have to be formed if the station is to continue to truly serve as a mouthpiece for Penn State students and an excellent learning experience for all those who participate.

Education is why people go to college, and the radio station allows students to best master their craft because they are implementing techniques that they are also learning in the classroom, but in a live setting.

Textbook knowledge certainly has its uses, but practical knowledge is priceless. And though, in any student run organization, mistakes are sometimes made, students are better for having learned how to deal with them in the long run.

The College of Communications must not be so overbearing that the growth process that is undertaken by those at WKPS is not impeded.

The purpose of the radio station is to give the students a voice that is not stifled by the politics and agendas of the those above them.

In the past, there was no fear of reprisal if a host on the station gave an opinion that did not fit the Penn State image. This freedom is invaluable, and cannot be compromised by the university. Not all students at Penn State are communications majors, yet all are permitted to work at the station.

Their opinions and styles are varied and add some much needed flavor to the airwaves.

The College of Communication must make sure that opportunities to be a part of the station will remain open to students of all disciplines to ensure that variance of opinion and background.

The takeover of WKPS has the possibility to be a great opportunity for both the students and the College of Communications. Though new equipment and more guidance are coming into the station, WKPS must still remain the voice of Penn State students.