Though many people vow to start afresh at the beginning of a new school year, the idea of cleaning the slate isn't always advisable.

As we enter a new school year, the Penn State community shouldn't start again; it should move forward. Student and community members should build on the past by setting realistic yet challenging goals for this semester.

The administration and the Board of Trustees should start working now -- as in this week -- to prevent another significant tuition increase. Though a small increase is to be expected, many current and future Penn State students cannot withstand another 7 percent hike. Many of univesrity President Graham Spanier's recent comments reveal an attitude of inevitability regarding the possibility of Penn State becoming a private institution. This possibility should not be treated as a inevitability, but rather a battle worth fighting.

The university should act quickly to create a program similar to the highly successful Grand Destiny Campaign that raised more than $1.3 billion.

The Undergraduate Student Government (USG) should also learn from the past. Members should be informed of their organization's many bylaws to avoid technical problems. They should also work to stop the almost constant in-fighting that plagued last year's Senate and administration. Focusing on internal and personal conflicts does not help the student body.

USG members, especially President Ian Rosenberger and Vice President Takkeem Morgan, need to be vocal. They should not be afraid to take a stand on issues effecting students and should publicize those opinions.

Students should do more to help themselves as well. Our generation has been labeled many things, but perhaps the most true and most disturbing is apathetic. The best way to combat this is by being aware and informed.

Reading a newspaper, any newspaper, is a great way to accomplish this. Plus, they are available for free all over campus.

The next presidential election is only a year away. Start following the issues and candidates now so you can make an informed decision next November. Consider taking this a step further by volunteering for a campaign.

Attending community meetings, such as USG and Borough Council meetings, allows students to have input in decisions that affect them.

Focusing on these goals will help the community move forward instead of having to start over again.