All this construction has created mud, unsightly debris and the annoying sound of hammering. But before we complain about the mud and the noise, we must think about what this construction represents. TCU is growing. With the renovation of Foster Hall, tentative plans for renovating the Student Center and plans for a new technology center and a new Rickel Building, TCU is expanding and improving its facilities. New buildings just don't appear, and renovations aren't neat affairs.
Expansion has a price.
The emphasis on growth and improvement at TCU is definitely welcomed, but we must be careful not to measure university improvement solely in terms of construction. While the evidence of physical improvements is obvious, academic improvements are much harder to measure. TCU needs better residence halls and technology centers, but that is not all it needs. While tough curriculums and teaching skills may not make for glossy pictures in brochures, it does make for a better university. Students need adequate facilities, but we also need a strong academic background.