That is right everyone, Utah Valley State College is officially going to be Utah Valley University on July 1st of this year. Unfortunately, I will be graduating before it gets full University status. As all of us know a degree from a university is going to have more respect than a degree from a college. All you have to do is submit your current degree, and they'll send you an improved version with university status. For any questions check the UVSC website.

UVU has made many large improvements in the last ten years. When I first started to study at the school, it felt more like a technical institution. With the added popularity of the school, they have been able to build a lot of new recreational and other facilities. The new baseball field is a great example of this. UVU has worked out a situation where they share the beautiful field with the local professional baseball team (The Orem Owls). This has been a great way to spread information about UVU's growth to local citizens. When people bring their children to see a game, they have a first-hand look at the amazing campus. The library is another example of Utah Valley University's future. Having a large, modern library seems to be a status symbol for all major universities. In my opinion, this is one of the major reasons the school has pushed so hard for this facility. This is also a sign that the state government is behind the school, and that there will be steady improvement to come. Having an amazing library is also a sign of the schools dedication to education. The new library is going to be equipped with the most up-to-date technology that should be a major asset for all students. Besides major facilities, the school has had an entire makeover. They have changed the entire feel of the school. This has been done through the addition of flat screen TV’s, improved lighting, and updated decorations. This investment has had a dramatic effect of the school’s population. Before two years ago, people were almost ashamed to say they went to UVU. Now when you go to the school, you'll see thousands of students proudly wearing sweat shirts, t-shirts, and other UVU gear. I believe this new enthusiasm comes directly from improved facilities and an unbelievably executed marketing plan.

My personal opinion is that this change is a good move for the state. It is true that it is going to cost the tax payers a bit extra at the end of the year, but higher education is worth the price. When the idea of a new university came up, there were many people against the proposal. Luckily for us, the state legislator saw it the other way, and supported the idea. People have had many complaints against the investment of a 30 million dollar new UVSC library. People also complained that other state schools would have their scholarship funds cut. I personally think these claims are ridicules. I think it is funny that people would complain against expanding education. UVSC is the number one higher education revenue provider for the state. They have an extensive international community along with many local residents. Because UVSC and BYU are in the same basic city, people love to compare the two. I have a lot of respect for BYU, but there are a few very significant differences between the two schools. The expansion of UVU really won't have that much effect of BYU. Brigham Young University is almost completely funded by the LDS church or private sponsors. This means their scholarship budget won't really be affected by the university expansion. There is no question that the school provides a great education. BYU has many hook-ups in the business world. This comes from many years of experience and very competent work force. BYU is a respected name in higher education. Many of the programs are among the top in the nation. My sister was a front runner at the law school, and my brother graduated with high honors in the accounting program.

Even with all this praise, it is a proven fact that UVU students make more money compared to BYU immediately after graduation. This could be due to BYU student’s pursuing graduate programs, or other factors. I am not trying to make an issue of this, but I think UVU deserves more respect from Utah citizens.

I think it is important to encourage education at any level. UVU provides learning opportunities for a new generation. I truly hope that people will continue to support UVU and other places of education all over the world.