The Facts:

It’s exam week at N.C. State and many students will soon be departing for their homes away from the University. For many, this means disconnecting from the campus environment and its associated problems.

Our Opinion:

Contrary to some students’ personal reality, the University does not close its doors during the summer. It’s essential students keep in touch with the campus’ summer happenings; they can have a big impact on the University students encounter in the fall.

It’s the end of yet another academic year at N.C. State and the dreaded exams which occupy most students’ plates until May 13.

Aside from eminent exams — for some of you, in the next couple minutes — most students are probably visiting campus today for one of the last times until the fall.

It’s certainly a just reward for a year of hard work — in the case of those who are graduating, four or five years. But the last newspaper until the summer does mean the end of campus news until the fall.

Something students should remember to think about as they pack their things for the break is that the University does not close during the summer — quite the opposite in fact.

Last year, the University’s top two administrators and chairman of its Board of Trustees resigned in an outrageous controversy over political paybacks. Despite the magnitude of the story and the combined one-two of the statewide budget cuts, which had massive implications for the UNC System, many students returned in the fall completely unaware of the Hollywood-level story from the summer.

It’s a saga with a lesson for students this summer. Budget cuts once again have their sights set on the University in ways that could have impacts on classes for next semester and beyond. Going home and forgetting about campus until the fall is simply not an option when students’ support and comments have such an impact on administrators’ decision making.

It’s said time and again, but students truly are the most influential voices on fee decisions and budget cuts; they’re the ones who it affects.

Likewise, the Board of Trustees will discuss the University’s 24-hour visitation policy at its July meeting. The result of that board will have a direct impact on students next year and could be swayed either way by student input.

The administration seems steadier under Chancellor Randy Woodson and, budget cuts aside, this summer is pointing towards some newfound stability.

But students should check in on campus news during the summer nonetheless. Students and the University benefit from an informed student base.

And, of course, enjoy the summer. Be safe in whatever it is you do.