Vanguard Vision

This week, we covered the major issues students brought up at this month’s President’s Forum.  We couldn’t help but notice that some of these issues, in particular the issues about bandwidth and offices on the first floor of Wickes, were issues we’ve heard before.

Just last semester, we did a story on the difficulties students face in terms of sharing bandwidth.  We also had a Vision about how we hoped that the renovations of Wickes Hall would involve changes in service, too.

So why are we seeing these issues pop again?

We feel that we’re seeing these things continue to show up as concerns because students aren’t speaking up when there’s a problem.  This theme applies to everything from the President’s Forum this week: bandwidth problems, problems with certain offices on campus and the actual forums.

In terms of the bandwidth problems, Netflix is a shockingly high contributor as to why the Internet on campus can be slow.  Thirty-seven percent, more than one-third of the total bandwidth at SVSU, is consumed by Netflix.  This breeds a competition for use of the Internet by residents and commuters alike.

Should we be shocked that the University is considering implementing a premium price for students wanting more bandwidth to use services such as Netflix? No.  In fact, we’re surprised that the University hasn’t brought up this suggestion before now.

It’s the only way to combat a losing battle.  The Internet is supposed to handle academic purposes, but sometimes it can’t even be used for that.  (We’re just glad that the University hasn’t imposed an all out ban on Netflix, even though that would be a quick way to get residents’ attention.)

Ken Schindler, director of ITS, said his office can’t do much when it doesn’t know about problems that are occurring.  No one can be a mind reader.  If you are having problems with bandwidth, speak up.

However, if you are one of those people who watch Netflix for hours, we have some advice for you.  Put down the computer.  Step away from the computer.  Study.  Join a club.  To be around a computer that much is not healthy and definitely not helpful for your studies.

As for dealings with certain offices on campus, this is not a new complaint.  We’ve heard countless complaints, some of which came from our own staff members recounting unpleasant experiences.  But again, if you don’t speak up and let them or a higher up office know about your complaint, how will it ever be addressed?  Friends are wonderful to vent frustrations to, but they can do little to help be a part of the change you want.

Finally, we’d like to address the lack of attendance at President’s Forums.  President Eric Gilbertson is not like other university presidents.  He’s approachable, and he’s willing to help students, but he can only get things done if he knows there’s a problem.  Few university presidents are as approachable as him and fewer hold monthly meetings where students can get answers for their questions and concerns.

In short, if there is a problem, speak up.  But speaking up isn’t enough.  Offer some suggestions that will lead to a good solution.  You are in college now.  Be the intellectual that you are and put your mind and voice to good use.