Students CAN make a difference

Student Senate involvement is at a low. Currently there are only 10 school, hall, and At-large senators combined.

Only 10 students are voting on important issues that directly affect students on this campus. I do not understand why other students do not feel any urge to make a difference.

As a student senator, I find the experience frustrating at times, but also very rewarding. I am making a difference on this campus, and can say that I am doing my best to represent the student body and create a better overall college experience for my peers.

My first question is: Do students realize the opportunities that they are missing out on by not being involved in student government? By being involved, students can gain confidence, learn to work with others, make friends, and let their opinions be heard.

That said, becoming a Student Senator is not the only way to be involved in making changes at this school.

My second question Is: Is a lack of marketing the reason for low student involvement? To answer my own question, I think that students do not realize all the opportunities for involvement. I am a student athlete, News Editor of The Eagle, and a Student Senator. As a member of many student groups, and speaking with many different types of students, I find that  there is a certain “negative” view of  the Student Senate. Regardless if this view is accurate, it is unfortunate that students may see it as a hindrance to them stepping up and becoming involved.

Let’s break the stereotype and create an even better Student Senate. Talk to a Senator, run for office, or come to a meeting. If you have a problem with something that the Student Senate is doing, quit complaining and get involved. That may seem harsh, but I am trying to be as honest and unbiased as possible.

I do not think that the current Senate is capable of truly representing all of the interests of it’s constituents, simply because there are not enough Senators and not enough different views being heard. That being said, I also think that Senate is doing a decent job of bringing up different issues of substance.

I think that there are many intelligent individuals currently serving in the Senatorial positions. Just imagine how much better the senate could be with ALL the Senatorial spots filled.

Because I am so involved and passionate about bettering Chadron State, I have found myself becoming a more well-rounded individual, too.

Sure, it is stressful at times, but I can tell you that I feel very connected to the school. Others can feel this way too if they just chose to get more involved.