The Opinion page serves a different purpose than the rest of the Optimist. While the Optimist staff strives to present the reader with unbiased news the editorial board attempts to offer the reader an opinion.

Columns, editorials, letters to the editor and cartoons make up the major pieces of the Opinion page. Each element serves a different purpose.

Columns, no matter how serious or light-hearted the topic, are meant cause readers to pause and consider the ideas placed before them. The writer decides what opinions and topics will be presented in her column, this is why each column is signed by the author.

We write these columns with the hope that readers will consider the ideas presented and make their own decision from there.

In addition to columns, editorials are a staple of the Opinion page. Members of the editorial board come together weekly to discuss issues ranging from the local to the international. Topics are gleaned from news stories, conversations and from what we think affects the student body.

The topic of each editorial is decided by the editorial board, which is composed of students from varied majors and backgrounds. Each student is chosen for the unique views and set of beliefs she brings to the conversation.

Editorials are discussed until the board comes to a consensus. Members may not agree on every aspect of the topic, just as readers may not. But, the board does share the opinion presented in the editorial.

When a consensus is not reached two editorials, each with an opposing view, will be published. This allows us to accurately present the argument of each side.

The editorial is published sans signature because it does not reflect the opinion of one individual. We do not claim to speak for the university or represent the thoughts of anyone other than ourselves.

The cartoon, one of the most popular features of this page, will often relate to the topic of the editorial. It may address issues and changes on campus and around the world.

By sharing our opinions we aim to open a forum in which students will shape and contribute their own views. The First Amendment recognizes our freedom of speech and of the press. Here we would like to exercise both rights. And by the end, we hope, each of us will be a better-informed citizen.

Feedback is a vital part of any media outlet. At the Optimist we encourage readers to express their views. Readers can voice opinions by posting comments on stories at www.acuoptimist.com or writing a letter to the editor. Comments and letters to the editor may be published in the Optimist.