While walking around campus, students should be able to breathe in and out assuredly without worrying about the health of their lungs. They shouldn’t have to choke on smoke as they walk to and from class.Smoking is a choice some choose to make, but many do not. Most nonsmokers abstain from smoking for health reasons. Therefore, having to breathe smoke around campus may anger those who chose not to smoke.

Smoking has become a problem on campus. Students and faculty members can’t walk across campus without passing a group of smokers. Those who refrain from smoking don’t like to smell like cigarette smoke when they arrive at class or work. Some professors, colleagues and employers may not appreciate those who smell like an ashtray, regardless of whether they smoke.

They also don’t enjoy the building smelling like someone has been puffing a cigarette inside the entrance.

The university needs to implement designated smoking areas on campus – areas where students and faculty members who choose to smoke will have a place to gather – a place where they would not bother nonsmokers.

Texas Tech University implements a ban on smoking 12 feet from any building entrance. A similar ban on TCU’s campus would allow smoke-free pathways for nonsmokers to travel on and would prevent buildings from smelling like smoke.

However, the blame doesn’t lie with smokers. Currently, many ashtrays are placed outside of building doors for the convenience of smokers. They have become an inconvenience to nonsmokers. Administrators should move ashtrays away from doorways and into areas that are less traveled.

By moving ashtrays away from high-traffic areas, TCU can respect both smokers and nonsmokers alike.

Associate editor Leslie Honey for the editorial board.