I am amazed that Penn State can consider such a large tuition increase for next year.

When I was a freshman, Penn State cost $10,712 a year, which included tuition, room, board and fees). Now, three years later, my sister is a freshman and it costs her $13,176 a year, a 19 percent increase. If the cost of Penn State increases more than 10 percent a year, she'll be paying at least $18,000 as an in-state student living on campus her senior year. Spanier claims to be doing everything he can to keep cost down, but I think there is more that can be done.

Look at where Penn State's money goes. When the addition to Thomas Building was completed, a beautifully landscaped courtyard with benches and bushes and a brick walkway was built on the north end of the building. I recommend you go enjoy what your tuition funded. Oh wait, I forgot, less than a year after it was completed the courtyard was completely destroyed to make room for the new Life Sciences building. That was really good planning.

The Smeal College of Business hopes to construct a huge new building near North Halls, which will be a huge educational asset. I have no problem with them wanting this building, but there is the problem of the Mitchell Building being right where they want to construct it. If the Mitchell Building were old, run down and in need of major renovations, it should be torn down. But take a walk up there and you'll see it's in better shape than most of the buildings on campus.

The HUB-Robeson Center officially was finished in 2000, but earlier this semester -- less than two years after it was completed -- the outdoor eating area is being reworked. Why not just do it right the first time?

From observing the actions of Penn State, I have learned vital financial management lessons. First, spend money like you are getting a big raise next year. Don't worry if you might not get it; just spend more than you have. Also, if my some chance you find yourself in a huge deficit, force the people who pay you to give you more money.

If Penn State needs more money from us, the administration better prove that they are being responsible with what they have, and using it for our education.