I would like to clarify my position on Penn State's Fall Break, in the wake of an article by Erica Zarra. In that article, I am quoted as saying: "I personally use my Fall Break to see my family, friends and dog."

That is my quote, but I want to make sure that the Penn State community does not see that remark as flip or cavalier, especially since the break was originally intended to be for academic purposes — to be used for meeting with professors, catching up on assignments, research, etc.

Truth be told, however, academics are not generally the focus of my break. That being said, I do things over Fall Break that do have academic benefit. Allow me to explain. During Fall Break, I balance my checkbook, pay bills, run errands, catch up on e-mail, visit friends, spend time with family and relax.

By completing these tasks and getting some rest, I am able to resume the semester with a clearer head — ready to focus on academics and the coming final exams.

So, my point is, even if Fall Break is not always used for "hard" academic purposes — writing, reading, researching — it does have a clear academic benefit for all students.

A two-day break is not extravagant; it does not, in my opinion, create serious disruption to the flow of the semester. It is a useful respite for all students, whether they travel, study, or spend time with family and friends.

I hope that the university community will continue to support the break, and that faculty senators will defend the break with their voices and votes.