The massacre that took place at Virginia Tech this past spring is likely to be the most tragic event of our college careers. Whether the students of Penn State, or any college for that matter, were personally affected by the happenings of April 16 or not, we have all been permanently marked. I'll never forget being in the cardio loft of Rec Hall, watching CNN with disbelief and horror as history unfolded. It was a feeling of uncertainty, fear, sadness and empathy, a feeling reminiscent of 9/11.

As the days following the shooting came and went, I was filled with pride for our generation -- we offered support, banded together and consoled the suffering. I can't begin to imagine what the students at Virginia Tech must have been going through, and I can only hope that the national outpouring of support lifted their spirits, even just a little bit.

I remember standing in line at the Family Clothesline for two hours as an ever-growing line of students stretched around the block, all of us waiting to purchase T-shirts displaying our support, writing messages of condolences to be sent to Blacksburg. The blue and white sea that normally fills Beaver Stadium turned orange and maroon that weekend at the Blue/White game, and as the S-Zone proudly read "VT," we were all Hokies for a day.

Penn State's behavior and support of Virginia Tech following the shootings is something that I will never forget. It was respectful, memorable, and honorable.

Six months later, however, I feel that we may be acting a bit disrespectful in regard to the tragedy. At least ten times per day, I pass a student on campus sporting a VT memorial shirt, something that irks me more than almost anything. The everyday wear of these shirts makes it appear as though we care so little about the event, that we couldn't even bother taking the time to consider it before getting dressed. Wearing that shirt is a constant reminder of the massacre to everyone you pass, and especially for those personally affected, evokes horrible emotions.

Some of you out there may, in fact, be wearing the shirt out of support and remembrance, but I ask that you consider the message you're sending before making it a permanent part of your weekly wardrobe. I guarantee that most students wearing the shirt rolled out of bed, put on some shoes and walked out the door -- this is the message that is being received. It appears inconsiderate and ignorant to regard a heavy event so lightly, and for all the passers-by out there like me, it's hard to take. So please, honor the students at Virginia Tech by keeping them in your thoughts, prayers, and heart -- but don't wear it on your sleeve.