Sam Singh is making the effort to meet with students.

And his effort is much appreciated.

The mayor of East Lansing has held a dinner and discussions on campus to meet more students.

He also was part of a discussion on campus last week with students and East Lansing police officers to talk about student concerns and will host three more free dinners on campus.

Singh also wants people to learn more about biodiesel fuel, which is why he and band member of rock 'n' roll band Guster were on campus Thursday to talk about the fuel.

Biodiesel fuel, which is considered to be a more environmentally friendly fuel, is used in both the band's tour bus and MSU and East Lansing vehicles. The stop was part of the band's campaign to spread awareness about environmental sustainability.

Getting a popular college band to come and talk about working toward more environmentally friendly fuel is a great way to reach students. Having Singh be a part of it is also a good way for him to meet students and talk about the city's work with biodiesel fuels.

Singh has only been mayor since November, after replacing Councilmember Mark Meadows, but lots of students probably don't know who he is.

That's why it's good he's trying to get his name out there and listen to student ideas and concerns.

After all, student and city relations have been tense in the past.

There were the April 2-3 disturbances, proposals to make drinking games a factor in getting a party noise violation and debates about whether students are drinking more and being louder.

There's a rift between students and the city, and Singh should work to bridge it with these informal meetings.

By making an effort to come off as approachable and concerned about students and not just permanent residents, Singh is helping to improve the relationship between the city and students.

Students should also make an attempt to get out and meet with the mayor.

If he wants to talk to us, we should make an effort to go and tell him what we have to say.