Traveling can be expensive — especially when it comes to air fare. Recently, the University and American Airlines have taken a big step toward reducing the burden on students’ wallets when it comes time to fly.

N.C. State is now a part of the American Airlines College program that will offer services to students to assist them in their travels. Students will now be able to fly at a reduced price, participate in other promotions and have a chance at winning round-trip tickets among other benefits.

This decision by the University to take part in the American Airlines College Program can only be good for students.

The University prides itself on the partnerships that it has created with various businesses and industries, but rarely do these partnerships provide tangible assistance and benefits for students.

The University should use this partnership as a model for future ones. American Airlines has student concerns and interests in mind with this program. Students are often overlooked by large businesses; however this is not true with American Airlines.

Time after time students have their pockets emptied while they are in college — sometimes barely getting by. Any support that students can receive from a partnership that the University establishes is nothing but a plus.

While the University has established this partnership through the college program, it’s up to students to take advantage of it. When booking air travel students need to remember the hand of friendship that American Airlines has extended and return by utilizing its air service. For this to be a partnership, students must take advantages of the specials and deals that are offered to them.

With winter and eventually spring break approaching, students should begin thinking about their travel plans. It’s important to remember our friends at American Airlines when you are making your plans. For this program to be a success, students need to begin utilizing these promotions.

Our University deserves credit for looking out for students in this partnership — let’s hope this will become a trend when establishing new partnerships.