Dear Editor
I wrote in strong support of a recent article advocating for the construction of a fitness center at Skyline University. As a member of the Skyline community, I wholeheartedly agree that it is time for our campus to have its own state-of-the-art fitness facility.
The article correctly points out that we are lagging behind compared to our sister schools, Cañada College and San Mateo College. Both already boast quality fitness centers. This disparity not only impacts universities’ competitiveness in recruiting and retaining students, but can also impact the daily lives of students, faculty, staff, and neighborhood residents. Not having an on-campus fitness center is a missed opportunity to enhance community life and promote overall well-being. There are several reasons why a fitness center would be an invaluable addition to Skyline College.
1. Health and Wellness: Fitness centers provide community members with convenient access to exercise equipment and space to promote physical health and mental well-being. Regular exercise is scientifically proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve mood, and boost cognitive function. Additionally, engaging in physical activity can boost self-esteem and provide a healthy outlet for stress, which is especially beneficial for those navigating academic, school, or life challenges.
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2. Academic performance: As the article suggests, regular exercise can lead to better concentration, better stress management, and potentially better grades. Providing students with a place to engage in physical activity between classes can have a positive impact on academic performance.
3. Campus Attractiveness: State-of-the-art fitness facilities can be a big draw for prospective students and can improve enrollment and retention rates. This demonstrates Skyline’s commitment to providing comprehensive resources for student success. Additionally, the fitness center can serve as a hub for social interaction and foster a sense of community among students, faculty, and staff.
4. Benefits to the community: In addition to serving the campus, a fitness center can also benefit the entire community, including nearby residents. By opening the facility to local residents, we were able to strengthen the connection between the university and its neighbors, promoting public health and promoting goodwill.
The benefits of a fitness center go beyond physical health. As the article correctly states, it could provide more recreational options on campus, boost student morale, and create a more vibrant campus atmosphere. An investment in a fitness center is an investment in our collective health, success, and quality of life.
Skyline College strives for excellence in all aspects of education. The addition of a fitness center is a natural extension of our commitment to supporting the physical and mental health of our students, staff, faculty, and surrounding community.
Sincerely,
Jesse W. Raskin
