During his free time this summer, Cyrus McNeal didn't thumb through magazines.

He created one geared toward MSU minorities.

"I sat down and thought about the ups and downs and what it would take," McNeal said. "To give back to MSU and the community, it will take a lot. I knew I was ready to take it on."

The journalism junior said he had the idea for the publication - which is called "Purpose" - for awhile but recently started thinking seriously about the project.

McNeal has been consulting faculty and recruiting writers, photographers and designers. Sandra Combs Birdiett, director of Multicultural Affairs for the College of Communication Arts and Sciences, is the faculty adviser for the student-run magazine.

The idea is a unique concept, Birdiett said.

"There needs to be voice given to the voiceless at MSU," she said, adding that her editorial involvement will be limited. "My participation in it is not to dictate stories and ideas. I will suggest, but I have no authority to censor or cancel stories - I wouldn't want that responsibility."

The first issue of the magazine, funded by several university department donations and advertisements from students and area businesses, will appear in October. Issues such as academics, minority concerns on campus and student cultural group events will be covered in the bi-monthly magazine.

McNeal said the 24-25 page magazine will be distributed for free on campus, but off-campus subscriptions will have a price.

Journalism sophomore Ashley Jenkins is one of about 24 students who will be on staff, and said a publication of this kind has been missing from campus.

"MSU doesn't have a publication that caters to each diverse culture," Jenkins said. "'Purpose' is that voice for the Chicano/Latino, Asian Pacific, Native American and African American (communities) to express freely what we experience daily."

McNeal said he chose the name "Purpose" for the magazine's future readers.

"It is what we are here for. Everyone here has a purpose," he said. "(The magazine will) help them realize what their purpose is and keep them on the path to that."

Assistant Director of African studies Yacob Fisseha hasn't seen the first issue, but said the publication should not be limited to campus issues.

"The State News may not cover everything, but they may focus on certain aspects of campus life," he said, adding that campus diversity helps students. "It helps to enrich campus life. I see no problem as long as it's not a duplication of reporting."

Journalism sophomore Leah Smith said students reading the magazine could find it helpful.

"It's hard adjusting to college life, especially if you are a minority," she said. "I don't have that problem, but some people do. It will be a nice addition."

McNeal said he hopes the magazine becomes a part of university history.

"As time progresses, it will give students of color something of their own, something they can learn from socially and academically," he said.