Traditions. We have few of them on our campus that were not imposed by or self-proclaimed by the University, and the granddaddy of all traditions is Homecoming Week. When arriving at N.C. State, new students don’t exactly know what to expect from our Homecoming Week, but rest assured, they know there will be at least something for them to participate in.

Last year’s Homecoming was lackluster at best, which resulted in calls for improvement for this year by students and even the Technician. However, this year’s Homecoming Committee took those calls and turned them into action with a much better Homecoming Week thus far.

While strides have been made to better Homecoming, there are still areas that could be enhance to make this tradition one of the best in the country.

Sponsorship of Homecoming has increased this year, however, the Committee should reach further out into the Raleigh community to increase partnerships and the overall Homecoming experience for students.

Hillsborough Street businesses must step up to the plate and support Homecoming and the students. This year, only four businesses have. Every business should get into the spirit, and not just by letting their windows get painted.

By getting more members of the Raleigh community — and all of Hillsborough Street businesses involved — the Homecoming Committee will have more resources to provide students with the ultimate Homecoming event. This includes more fun giveaways and expanded and animated events for students.

Students and student organizations also must do their part to increase the success of Homecoming. More student organizations need to get involved with the parade so the public can see the incredible cross-section of students we have at this university.

Students must get involved with helping on the various subcommittees that the Homecoming Committee has. These committees are open to any and all, and the hard work of students will compliment those who took it upon themselves to be the leaders of Homecoming.

Our Homecoming Week has taken a big step in the right direction this year — but let’s not settle. Now it’s time to look toward taking the week to the next level.