I generally try to incorporate reading the editorials in the Collegian into my daily routine. At times I encounter fascinating columns, but often I read ones that lack the basic standards of professional writing. What is most interesting is that many of these columnists are journalism majors. Yet, they fail to get their facts right, include both sides of the story and respect their opponents.

I understand that a column is intended to present the writer's opinion on issues; however, this doesn't imply that the writers shouldn't use factual accounts to support their view. And no, Bill O'Reilly's Culture Warrior is not a reliable source for attacking the ACLU (as one of the columnists did). The book itself presents as "facts" things that are simply incorrect.

Earlier this week, I read a column that lacked a respectable attitude toward its opponents. The writer bashed the greek members' and their efforts in the Thon. Such disrespectful bashing was unnecessary. Anyone who contributes to Thon, greek or non-greek, must be applauded for their achievements toward a great cause. The columnist also failed to provide supporting evidence for his reasoning, as sweatshirts and away messages are simply not adequate. Accordingly, I really encourage some of the Collegian columnists to be more cautious regarding what they write and how they write it. Instead of an Ann Coulter-like writing style they must adapt a more professional one. Penn State students are intelligent and they deserve to read high-quality columns every morning.