UA explores potential changes to NSO

With only four Undergraduate Assembly meetings left this semester, Sunday night's meeting was brief, with the body passing no new proposals.

One of the first issues discussed was New Student Orientation, which may undergo some changes in the coming years.

The UA is working to create a safer environment during NSO -- one that includes fewer activities on the Beige Block, the 4100 block between Walnut and Locust streets where a large number of upperclassmen reside.

In September, the body passed a proposal urging the University to allow registered parties - which provide a safer atmosphere by regulating alcohol distribution - and is also promoting other non-drinking events hosted by other student groups on campus.

There's also talk of a potential NSO Part II that would happen a month into the semester. Freshmen would be able to take better advantage of academic resources if this information were presented after classes started, UA members said.

New SAC chairwoman Natalie Vernon was introduced along with four other students who were elected to the SAC Executive Board in the last two weeks.

Vernon briefly outlined her goal to improve "customer service" with student groups in enabling them to acquire funds for activities and reserve space for events.

She also expressed her hope for better outreach to other branches of student government.

In a report on the Trustee Budget and Finance Committee meeting, which occurred last week, it was confirmed that financial aid will not be scaled back despite current economic woes.

The trustees approved $29.8 million for renovations to Rodin and DuBois College Houses, but UA treasurer and Wharton senior Ben Coulter said the renovations for DuBois will not be as extensive as those planned for Rodin.

The Academic Affairs Committee is investigating ways to promote awareness of undergraduate research opportunities, primarily by developing a stronger relationship with the Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships.

CURF recently hired associate directors for research and communications, which they hope will increase CURF's visibility and effectiveness as a resource for undergraduates.

The Academic Affairs Committee plans to work with CURF to hold lab open houses in the School of Engineering and Applied Science and science departments in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Additionally, the Committee proposes to hold small research fairs with a CURF research advisor in some of the College Houses on campus.

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