We Work with Our Faculty and like It

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At first, the student who serves on such a committee may be surprised to find that she is a full-fledged member whose opinions are respected and valued. She soon learns that she is expected to have an opinion and to express it in a mature way, and to follow through with constructive suggestions whenever possible. Inasmuch as she is representing the entire student body she realizes that a last-minute personal opinion will not suffice-thorough preparation for each meeting is essential. What better practice could we ask in research, original thinking, problem solving, and self-expression? Simultaneously the student gains experience in working with a democratic group, and develops insight into the duties and problems of the faculty and a genuine appreciation of the job they do. And, unless she is the exception, she carries from these meetings to the other students a contagious enthusiasm for the work of her committees. Nor is the plan without benefit to the faculty. The conscientious student committee member presents the viewpoint of her group without prejudice or anxiety. This approach to problems might not be available to the faculty were it not for the permissive atmosphere that prevails in these meetings. Only two of our seven standing committees are without regular student representation. The Faculty Executive Committee, because of its administrative nature, has no student member; the Committee for Student Development may invite a student to take part whenever it seems desirable. The student member of the Admissions Committee is always a senior and is usually graduated by the time the proposed candidates enter the school. The function of the student on the Library Committee is to keep informed on the books and services the students feel they need, and to tell the students what the library has to offer them.