The Observer, April 28, 2006
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 26
Semester Grades
Admissions – A for Achieving: With new recruiting strategies and advertising campaigns, the admissions department has been able to set a new record of over 7400 applicants this year. This figure is an increase of 5 percent from the previous record set last year. In addition, there has been an increase in the number of female applicants, which is a step in the right direction toward lessening the gender imbalance. Case admissions has strived toward attracting a larger applicant pool of bright and diverse students, and it is impressive to see that they have achieved their goals.
University Program Board – P for Perfunctory: UPB has traditionally been one of this campus' most active and prolific student groups, planning and executing scores of diverse events designed to involve the entire student body. But with few outstanding events, complaints of lack of advertising and variety have hit UPB this semester. Despite this, UPB has revamped its executive board, and promises bigger and brighter things next semester. Though there are minor problems, UPB remains one of Case's most valuable student organizations.
USG – C for Cash Cow: While USG was able to give us the comprehensive student events calendar and extended hours at the Starbucks in the Village, our elected representatives have failed to do much else for the student body. Although there haven't been many improvements or noticeable changes on campus, there's one thing we can always count on USG for – money. If your campus organization needs money, submit a proposal, and you'll probably get a cut of the student activities fee during the period of mass funding. Recently, it seems as if the only purpose USG serves is to hand out money to the groups that need it.
Administration – F for Fleeing: It's no secret that the university has been the center of debate and controversy over the past few months. From the budget deficit, to the votes of no confidence in President Edward Hundert and Provost John Anderson, to the announcement of Hundert's resignation, it's no wonder the administration at Case is on shaky ground. It is also rumored that many departments will receive budget cuts and as a result, Case employees may have to pack their bags by next year. It will be interesting to see who will still be here next fall after so much controversy and change.
Housing and Residential Life – U is for Underhanded: This semester, Housing and Res Life announced that the Learning Assistant (LA) position will be eliminated. As a result of unsatisfactory responses toward the position and budget constraints, executives decided that the position was no longer needed. However, the unexpected announcement came after LAs had already been hired for next year. The LAs are now alternates for residential assistant (RA) positions and given high priority for other housing positions. Though LAs are given these options, it doesn't make up for the fact that their jobs were taken away almost as soon as they were offered. Whether this change was due to disorganization or disregard for the hired students, it is just another example of the lack of communication between administrators and students.
