It is assumed that a greater understanding of the complex interrelationship between the individual student and his environment will result in more intelligent and effective use of institutional resources in total educational programing. The first of four articles calls for increased research on students because it is felt that the adequacy of institutional programs depends on the extent they conform to students' abilities, achievements, socioeconomic backgrounds, cultural and vocational interests, values, and expectations. The second article discusses the growing pluralism in American universities and suggests that an understanding of the developmental processes of students will provide a basis for the development within the institution of a multiplicity of educational environments which will enable students to find educational conditions best suited to their potential and intellectual aspirations. The third article is concerned with the student's attainment of a personal identity and proposes that colleges should assist the student in breaking his dependency on parents, developing self reliance, and gaining personal freedom and individuality. The last paper focuses on students' strong reaction to bureaucratic universities and suggests ways to make college more personal. (RSM)