I am a Monmouth University student writing in response to an article that appeared in the Sept. 27 Atlanticville, titled "New Semester — Same Old Parking Problem." In that article, Mr. James Flanagan said in reference to Monmouth University students that "they degrade our environment." This statement is far from true.

Monmouth University students contribute greatly to the West Long Branch area. Students support the economy of the area by shopping at local stores, eating at local restaurants, and supporting local businesses. Monmouth University is also the home of two historical buildings that attract a great amount of attention to the area, the Guggenheim Library and Woodrow Wilson Hall.

Many students volunteer their time to local organizations. However, due to comments about Monmouth, several students, including myself, are considering volunteering in surrounding areas that will appreciate the efforts more.

Not all Monmouth students are positive assets to the community; there are some bad seeds in every group, and it is not fair to stereotype all students together as degrading to the environment.

Maybe if people like Mr. Flanagan took the time out to visit Monmouth University, they would see how hardworking the students are. They would see that students are working hard to become productive members of society, a society that considers them garbage.

Paula Lupperger

Long Branch