This column is open to faculty, students, and administrators. It is an expression of the author exclusively and does not necessarily represent the opinions of the Westerner staff. The staff reserves the right to edit or refuse publication of any article submitted.

By MIKE MLODOCH

Mutual mistrust between the administration and the students is probably the major problem blocking constructive change at Maine West. This mistrust is characterized by a condescending attitude on the part of some members of the administration and general apathy and despair on the part of the students.

Because the word "apathy" is used so often in discussing student problems, the real issue here is obscured. Apathy, although some will disagree, is not born into students but instead acquired. A better word than "apathy" is ''disillusionment.''

Students learn through experience that the administration is reluctant to act on any change unless to do so would be expedient. Furthermore, in talking with members of Student Council, I find that when discussing possible proposals, some administrators treat these students as inferiors. This attitude may be justified in terms of experience but as diplomacy it is counterproductive.

By no means do I want to generalize and say that all administrators are guilty of this attitude; in fact, most are willing and anxious to help students. However, a few administrators and faculty members greet students acting for positive change with an air of nonchalance and seeming noninvolvement.

This is how many students acquire apathy. They see little positive change at Maine, outside of expansion. So when they encounter or hear about this condescending posture, they despair. They feel that there is no hope through "legitimate" channels.

Therefore, perhaps if these members of the administration would attempt to change this attitude to one of accessibility. students would become more interested in their school. This is the best way to cure student "apathy."