In order to graduate from college, it should be necessary for a student to have at least two points credit for participation in approved undergraduate activities." Such was the suggestion made at one time during the recent Intercollegiate Conference at M. I. T. It is a startling and a novel idea, but it would be difficult to disprove its potential value both to the individual and the college. There could be no slackers under such a ruling, and there could be no student who did not contribute something, however small, to the welfare of the college, in return for the vast amount which he received.

The compulsory element would have, of course, its objections. It it conceivable that it might lead to a hearty dislike and open hostility for the non-academic life of the college. Activities might become work under such a regime. But it would seem, nevertheless, that this requirement should rest lightly upon the shoulders of every desirable student, and appear as a burden only to those undergraduates whose presence is of doubtful value under any circumstances.

The conception of compulsory student activity is apparently based upon the philosophy that there is in reality a distinct unity of purpose between classroom work and the better undergraduate organizations. This belief meets strong opposition in many instances, but it is rapidly coming into greater favor. Students and educators are both realizing that the college athletics, the college papers, the musical organizations, and the dramatic societies, all are invaluable supplements to the academic work of the institution, and in many cases might be made virtual laboratories, rather than competing interests.

There are, then, many excellent reasons for giving college credit for participation in activities and for making such credit a pre-requisite for graduation. The underlying theory is sound, and the practical results are evident. It would be interesting to see a trial of the system. --The Brown Herald.