Editor's Note: This is the third in a three-part editorial series on the new "Changing Directions" and "Focused Excellence" plans set forth by the Arizona Board of Regents and UA administration.

If the "Changing Directions" and "Focused Excellence" plans move forward and the university makes its admissions process more personal and rigorous, campus culture, student morale and school spirit will stride on in positive directions not seen before at the UA.

A student body that is not just elite, but that is truly interested in attending the university, will not only strengthen academics but it will also make for a community of individuals who will be actively involved in their college life.

Students who have to work for a spot at their university, and are not just granted a seat based on their state of residence and proof of a 2.5 high school grade point average, take pride in their school and give back to it.

The collegiate experience is about more than what happens in the classroom; it's about everything from attending athletic events to listening to fascinating lectures.

Right now, the UA struggles with inspiring a sense of pride and allegiance in students' minds about the institution. The football stadium remains far from full, voter turnout in student elections is abysmal, and few seem to care about important campus issues or their own intellectual development.

But school spirit cannot be injected like medicine into former, current or future students.

The UA has many things to be proud of: a rich history full of tradition, top faculty who are ready and willing to better students' minds, stellar athletic teams and a marvelous array of student clubs and organizations.

By making students earn their spot through an improved application process and looking for applicants who are more than just grades and test scores ÷ who instead are interested, active and have a proven track record of involvement ÷ the campus culture will become a reflection of the students who want to be here.