Penn State is usually the leader among colleges and universities, and right now our administration may force us to become a follower with the elimination of the Health and Physical Activity (GHA) requirement. There is no logical reason to remove the GHA requirement. For the university to say that most other universities are without it is a pathetic excuse to cut a requirement that is meaningful to students. Since when are we worried about what other schools are doing? For some students, the GHA requirement is the only physical activity or health education they receive. For others, it is the most enjoyable part of their Penn State curriculum. If the GHA requirement is removed, isn't it just the beginning? Will reduced funding for the kinesiology department follow? Will we eventually have fewer gym facilities?

I came to Penn State because it is unlike other universities. It is one of the best schools in the nation, and I hope it stays that way.