Dear Editor,

I felt that I had to write to Bilkent News after reading two recent letters to the editor that unfairly criticized the Health Center and its doctors and employees. I've left the Health Center smiling every time I've been there even though I was ill.

Every time I've been to the Health Center, they never refused me. The doctors are more like friends to me. When a patient is nervous about having their blood tested, the staff is able to relax the patient and complete all the procedures without hurting the patient.

I reject the unfair criticism levelled at the Health Center's staff. Don't you think the medical staff deserves appreciation instead of harsh criticism?

(Koray Aral MAN-II)

Dear Editor,

I offer my thanks and gratitude to the Health Center staff for their efforts to preserve the health of Bilkent community. A recent example of these efforts revealed itself last week. On 10th of March, I attended an informative conference, organized by the Health Center, given by Prof. Dr. Serhat Ünal from Hacettepe Medical School on AIDS. Unfortunately, there were only a few audience. This conference, shows us that the Center not only cures illnesses, but enhances our awareness of current vital issues.

Besides, I appreciate the service of the center within their limited doctor and time capacity. We may sometimes be unhappy about the Center. However, I believe we should be more tolerant and empathic when we evaluate others.

Complaining and criticizing are not effective alone, viable and applicable solutions will certainly help more. Therefore, I invite all interested to suggest projects that will improve the Health Center.

(Çağrı Haksöz IE-V)

ID Checks are for Our Own Good

Dear Editor,

I've been following the discussion in Bilkent News about ID checks. I wonder why some are so negative about such simple measures. Personally, I do not believe that this ID check "stuff" is senseless. Rather, I find it essential because I don't want to be left out at the bus stop because of free riders who do not have the right to use the bus service. Also, in a time when our country's security is threatened by some people who are not very friendly, ID checks gain more importance for deterrence.

As the Student Union elections approach, more attention should be paid to keep outsiders supporting any particular group from getting onto the campus, and security guards should be warned to stop those intruders by ID checks.

All the fuss about ID checks shows our laziness to understand things, and our lack of consciousness shows itself in the lines of my friend who "does not want to think of the people of Bilkent as 'us.'"