COLUMN: Continue reaching out to ASUSU officers
I have thoroughly enjoyed observing the recent debates over the proposed turf fields and new student recreation center that have filled The Statesman and various social media outlets.
New student-led coalitions and advertising campaigns, both for and against the proposal, popped up on campus. Both sides have shown they are passionate about their side of the argument.
The ARC issue aside, what excites me most is the number of students who broke through general student apathy. How often do we complain about a school service or individual programs that seems to be lacking? Yet, all too often, we forget about the issue like we forget about the next Canvas notification reminding us of an impending paper deadline.
I’m not really blaming anyone. Let’s face it, a lot of the time college life is a giant balancing act that seems like it is going to come crashing down at any minute. It’s so easy to get caught up in the next homework assignment. It’s easy to be satisfied with the status quo or, at least, grudgingly live with it. Luckily, when the ARC proposal threatened to affect our wallets, people wanted to speak up, which only led to more discussion and, ultimately, I hope it leads to the best solution for our school.
My plea is this, when you see something that needs fixing, don’t be satisfied with thinking, “Oh well, I’ll just have to live with it,” and moving on.
I know few of us have time to champion our own crusade for change, and that is exactly why there are designated people at USU to do that for you. During my time as an ASUSU leader working with university and individual college administrations, I am surprised over and over by how many people are willing and ready to look at things from a new angle, or promptly address student concerns.
Both student leaders and faculty really do want to create the best USU experience possible, but it takes feedback from all of us. One of the big disappointments during my tenure has been how few students come to see me with ideas, suggestions or complaints. Many TSC employees stand at the ready to refine the system, but we can’t make the changes you want. You don’t have to start an entire campus movement yourself to have your voice be heard. All you have to do is get the message to the right people.