150 cameras to be distributed today for photo program

An annual program that publishes students' photographs of their daily life begins today.

The Dean of Students-sponsored program, "One Day At the U of A," will distribute 150 disposable cameras for University of Arizona students to record their lives on campus. Cameras will be handed out from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today in Old Main Room 203.

The program, which was initiated by Melissa Vito, dean of students, is in its fourth year and is the only one of its kind among universities nationwide.

Celia Sepulveda, director of education and outreach, said the program is aimed at getting students' opinions of campus and the university as a whole.

"It's a different way to get students' opinions through a photo about their favorite parts of campus and what needs to be improved," she said.

The cameras must be returned to the dean's office by 5 p.m. tomorrow to be eligible for publication, which is scheduled for the last week of April. The photographs will be part of an insert in the Arizona Daily Wildcat as well as handouts at summer orientations.

Those who participate in the program will be required to take part in a follow-up interview that the dean's office uses to develop statistics about students' interests.

"The administration and faculty don't know what students are doing or thinking, so it's an assessment tool that is also fun," Sepulveda said.

She said that through similar campus climate surveys, the office has found interesting information. Campus Climate Survey 2001 found 91 percent of UA students use computers and are among the highest percentage of students who use e-mail in the nation.

Mike Remedi, coordinator of outreach and development, said the program has gained favor among students and has grown significantly since its first year.

"The program was so popular that it became an annual event · and students have treated this as their yearbook," he said. He added that the program is completely operated by students.

Sepulveda said the cameras will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and recommends all interested students participate.

"If you haven't done it, give it a try. It's really fun," she said.

The Marshall Foundation and the West Main Gate company contributed $25,000 over five years to help support the program.