Thus far, the 2007-08 academic year on our campus has been active with news and changes. These news stories aren’t just confined to the boundaries of our University — they extend outward into the local and state communities and the nation. As we begin to look forward into the spring semester, we can examine the issues of today, which will become the news stories of tomorrow.

Campus smoking

One of the first things students will notice when they return to campus deals with smoking. The state legislature recently passed a law that will ban most smoking on state property, including N.C. State. No longer will students be able to smoke right outside of their respective dorms or academic buildings. We predict this will become an issue for both student smokers and how the University will accommodate their habit.

Men’s basketball

When spring comes, many minds will turn to March Madness and men’s basketball, especially on our campus, as it’s located on Tobacco Road. The big question for our men’s basketball team is whether the team will put it all together and get back into the NCAA Tournament. To date, the team has already suffered two losses. And with issues swirling around team identity, the question remains whether the team can get back to the dance. Many eyes will be on us this year since it’s the 25th anniversary of the ’83 NCAA Championship team. Will coach Sidney Lowe return the team to where it was when he was a player 25 years ago? Stay tuned.

Elections

This spring, not only are there the traditional Student Government elections, but there’s the buildup to the 2008 presidential election. Before classes even begin in January there will have been one caucus in the party primary election phase. The Triangle has seen some interest from candidates and political big shots, but as the semester and year progress, look for the area to once again return to campaign activity. On our campus, look for the College Republicans and Democrats to seek to increase political awareness, not just the presidential election, but for governor and senator races as well.

The spring semester will be full of news and different issues. One never knows what to expect from semester to semester, but, with what has taken place so far this year, it looks like 2008 will get an interesting and exciting kickoff. So, be prepared and on the lookout when you return in January.