What a lot of the student population doesn't realize is that the city is composed of more than just them. The permanent residents are called "permanent" for a reason; they pay property taxes and city taxes to a much greater extent than students and are actually here to "live." The city owes them the same consideration they give to the students, if not more. It's sad to see the student population act victimized when the city tries to do things to help the permanent residents.

This plan to remove 24 houses to bring in 39 more places to live was done to revitalize the school district. How would it look if a city that emphasizes education like East Lansing had to have their children bussed to a neighboring city grade school because there weren't enough permanent residents to support a school?

I politely ask students who read the "Unwelcome" editorial (SN 9/1) to not freak out like the author did and realize that you are not the victims. You are a guest in a city that is your host. They will be cordial to you and expect you to behave as guests should - with respect and appreciation. If you do that, it will be reciprocated. If you come thinking you are a victim, it will be a long, hard road for you because you've taken the wrong path.

East Lansing loves students; it just doesn't like the attitude of disrespect that comes with some of them. You are in the unfortunate position of coming in at times with a reputation that the other batch of students left behind, and that can be difficult. That means that you need to work extra hard to break that stereotype instead of proving it correct. I personally enjoy most of the student population in East Lansing.

Jamin Villarreal
MSU employee