This past weekend, I had the opportunity to introduce Penn State to one of my friends from home, who had never visited the campus.

I was beyond excited when she agreed to accompany me for the weekend to visit some friends.

Having told her so much about Penn State and how great it is and how much I miss it, my image of Penn State was completely shattered.

This occurred when the friend I brought along with me was racially attacked and verbally abused not once, but twice, in the two days we were there.

Her image of Penn State was not the one I had envisioned, but rather one of ignorance and bigotry.

It saddens me that her weekend was ruined and she told me she'd never want to return for another visit.

As an alumna, I am disheartened by the racial climate at Penn State, and I am desperate for a change.

I want friends to enjoy the Penn State that I did for four years, not the one we encountered last weekend.