Losing weight, quitting smoking and getting out of debt seem to top the list.

The new year brings another string of New Year’s resolutions just waiting to be broken.

This time around, from the most elite administrator to the bottom-barrel freshmen, 2004 has the people of NIU drafting a list of resolutions they actually intend to keep.

President John Peters sighed as he reflected upon the assortment of resolutions he’s made over the years.

“I used to always plan for my accomplishments,” Peters said. “But I’ve always wished for good health and to be in good shape, things like that.”

This year, Peters said his resolution is to do more guest lecturing, particularly in political science, his field of specialty.

Peters said he wishes he could teach a class for an entire semester, but lacks the time because of other commitments.

“The kids would have to hear that their teacher is in Springfield all the time,” Peters said. “I couldn’t do that.”

Although many professors insisted they don’t make resolutions anymore, a few made one or two.

Communication professor John Butler proposed a resolution to return calls to everyone who tries to reach him.

“I want to call back everyone within 24 hours, no matter who, no matter what their request, concern or complaint,” Butler said.

Students were brimming with resolutions to improve the mind, body and soul for the new year.

“I plan to go out and make things happen for myself, instead of sitting back and waiting for them to occur,” said Angie Schlott, a senior textiles, merchandising and apparel major.

Senior journalism major Lamar McDowell also has plans to improve his daily life.

“I want to drink less and lead a healthier everyday life,” McDowell said. “This way, I’ll get more done during the day.”

Others responded with simple wishes, such as showing more appreciation to the people in their lives.

“I want to be a better friend,” senior management major Amber Sutton said.

Sutton explained that she needed to dedicate more time to relaxing with loved ones after working so hard in previous semesters.

Of course, the weight loss resolutions poured in, but they were not limited to only women.

Sophomore undecided major David Holliday discussed his goals to lose weight at the Student Recreation Center.

“I want to lose 15 pounds this year,” Holliday said.

And finally, no compilation of New Year’s resolutions would be complete without plans of love.

“I want to find that significant other in my life, someone to share my love with,” junior communication major Mir Ali said.

Freshmen business administration major Hannon Hines had plans concerning his significant other.

“I will never cheat again,” Hines said. “I want to be completely monogamous with the person I am with.”

No matter what the case, resolutions are made for a reason and are worth keeping. Especially when it comes to someone you love.