Some Upperclassmen Still Needing P.T.

Every year it happens that a few seniors, not more than three or four, are faced with the prospect of not graduating because of a lack of PT credits. Athletic Department rules require a "physically capable" boy to complete his physical training before graduation.

Physical training could be one of the easiest 'A' courses in the College," says Nathaniel A. Parker, assistant director of PT, "all one must do is attend classes three times a week."

About four per cent, or 45 members of the freshman class, however, fall the course, because of an excess of cuts. For those 45 there is a year of rough exercise ahead, since they must make up the cuts, plus undergoing a six- or 12-week punitive schedule.

If the credit violators fail to pass in their sophomore year, they must repeat the training the following year. Even then a few rebels against the system fail to comply, and so the process is repeated with monotonous regularity in the senior year.

If a freshman has taken five or more cuts in a term without making them up, he must take one six-week exercise course the following year. But if he has failed both terms, a 12-week schedule awaits him. "But this seldom happens," Parker says; "most boys are smart enough not to make the same mistake twice."

Probation

When a freshman has taken three cuts, Parker sends him a warning in writing. During the year "hundreds" of such warnings are sent out by the PT office. If a receiver of one neglects it and exceeds his four allotted cuts in one term, he is called in for a talk with Parker. If the session does not enlighten the rules infringes, the Dean's Office may place him on probation. This happens only if the offender has low marks, Parker said. But if he still has not fulfilled the requirements by his junior year, he will go on pro.

A student may make up extra cuts before the end of a term, but once the term is past, he must undergo extra exercise. No matter how a person may attempt to dodge the system Parker is likely to be at least one step ahead of him. If he doesn't earn the necessary credits in his sophomore year, "fine," says Parker; if not in his junior year, "fine again"; "but they cannot graduate without PT."

The few seniors, therefore, who do not want to be left behind and who are in danger of just that, can be seen working off the tenacious credits. Running about when they might study, they are reputed to deplore their lack of foresight.

"Everybody eventually fulfills his PT requirements," says Parker. "No one beats the game."