University Star

Dead days the only periods every student looks forward to on their semester exam schedule. However, with these extra days cut in half, students will see the cut more helpful than harmful.

For those graduating in December, commencement would have been cutting into prime vacation time. According to the Registration and Academic Calendar Coordinating Committee, having two reading days instead of one would have been pushed back the Fall 2012 commencement ceremony to Dec. 21 and 22. Moving this date back could create unnecessary agenda problems with travel expenses and planning. It would be completely ridiculous to make soon-to-be alumni and their proud families leave vacations and other affairs to gather in San Marcos for graduation.

The projected amount of money possibly saved if the alteration is passed is shocking. Rosanne Proite, director of housing and residential Life, said for those living on campus, an extra reading day could tack on an additional $80,000 dollars to future expenses. This includes both charges dealing with housing fees and meal plan money. Making this change to the academic calendar would ease the stresses of tuition in a significant way for future classes of students and on-campus residents.

With only one dead day, the benefits will outweigh the negative aspects. There will now be a full weekend with extra days to enjoy before the week of exams begins. With the current state of the economy it is crucial for monetary matters, both tuition and personal, are considered — no matter what is up for discussion.