"PRO" PROBE

In its investigation of language-probation the Student Council may find itself sparring with a mirage. The rule appears to be clear--extra-curricular activities connected with the college are barred to students who have not passed the language requirements by the end of their second year--but it is not. There is continually a controversy as to which activities the probation axe ought to fall upon, and many believe that the blew of the axe ought to be postponed for longer than two years. Nevertheless, when it examines the patience with which University Hall treats the deliquents, the Council cannot reasonably ask for less discipline, unless it favors no discipline at all.

The leeway for passing in work ordinarily done at preparatory school is two years, and the pass-word is a C in one of the adequate courses or a good grade for an exam given three times a year. Thus for two years the axe of probation is sheathed while the student is presumed to be taking the courses he needs. If there is another year of grace given and if the student's work fails to pass the exam a third time, he must clutter up his Senior year with an elementary language. If there are to be language requirements at all, pressure must be applied at some time, and two years is the longest free-ride safe for the student.

Sympathy for individuals with special grievances ought not to sweep the Council off a firm footing. Though the latest investigation pops gently in cars tuned to cannon-like reports on Tutoring Schools and House Athletics, it shows now alive the body is to the troubles of the undergraduates. The same energy could well be hitched to heavier wagons than language probation.