The grand traditions of Penn State have served as a distinguishing mark to set the university apart from others.

From protecting the Lion Shrine during Homecoming to the spring finals streak down Mifflin Road, the students have found ways to make good out of their Penn State heritage.

Things are starting to spiral downward. We are no longer permitted to streak for fear of getting arrested for lewd conduct by University Police, and the brand new tradition of Paternoville was quickly halted.

This is just one of the many things angering me about the university these days. The time-honored traditions are becoming a thing of the past, and the students find themselves growing restless for new experiences to make their Penn State career memorable. What defines a university more than its traditions?

It's certainly not the low cost of attending; certainly not the favoring of alumni whose time at the university is over, but also whose generous donations are greatly appreciated. It's certainly not the appeal of the campus and all of the buildings on it; it's not the faculty, the administration or even the student body.

It's the traditions that we hold so dear. The traditions are what set us apart from any other university. And while law and order have its place in society, nothing can overcome the awesome power that is the tradition of Penn State University.