It's the battle of aesthetics versus academics. It seems like this is an ongoing battle at Penn State, where new buildings are opening each semester and beautification efforts are going on daily.

Yet, at the same time, tuition is skyrocketing and some students are left to question the purpose of having a pretty campus if soon some people won't be able to afford to pay university tuition.

The construction of the Obelisk Garden and the University House Terrace Garden near the Hintz Family Alumni Center are two of the most recent beautification examples. Administrators and alumni say these efforts are needed to give students the chance to relax outside and help students become familiar with the area around the center.

The most recent projects are taking place as a result of private donations from the Parmi Nous Alumni Interest Group (AIG), and Ron and Nancy Ewing. AIG donated $125,000 for the construction of the Obelisk Garden, and the Ewings gave $50,000 for the University House Terrace Garden.

Roger Williams, executive director of the Penn State Alumni Association, suggested the funds from AIG would be most needed for the completion of the gardens.

This suggestion raises concerns about why administrators are encouraging private donors to give money to adding lush green space on our campus when the money could be appreciated in other areas. For instance, how about tuition? Could the money be put toward scholarships for low-income students instead?

There won't be a tangible reminder of the donation. Perhaps not as many students will be able to benefit from the money. But it could save lower and even middle-income students a lot of financial turmoil -- an increasing number of students who can't afford tuition.

Certainly, many students enjoy the beautification of campus -- to an extent. But a simple change needs to be made. Administrators and those who call alumni asking for donations should stress the importance of giving money where it really matters.

It's an effort that is already used by members of Lion Line, who often deal with donors wanting to give money all to the athletic department after a winning football weekend. They tell them the money could just as well be used for academics.

It's the same case here. It all starts with everyone, including administrators and alumni, realizing the severely detrimental impact rising tuition has on students.

If donors are continuously encouraged to give money to beautification efforts, we'll have a beautiful campus -- but only rich students will be able to appreciate it.