UNC’s Student Government doesn’t represent the students
They’re basically nonexistent unless they want something
As a freshman, I assumed Student Government would be a huge deal on UNC’s campus. I thought the organization would make itself known in the biggest way at Orientation, Fall Fest and every other event UNC put on. I thought Student Government would be used as a tool to make students more aware of happenings on campus and to get students involved.
But as it turns out, I was wrong about that.
I can’t think of one time during my first semester when Student Government was emphasized at all. Come to think of it, I don’t even remember if they had a booth at Fall Fest. I’m aware our previous Student Body President was Houston Summers, but I’ve never heard anyone talk about his policies or actions other than implementing some gender-neutral bathrooms.
I’m sure Student Government has done a lot to help out UNC’s campus and student body. They’re probably making positive changes to the school in general. But the whole organization pretty much hides in the shadows.
The only time Student Government has made itself known this year was during election time. I couldn’t walk 10 feet in the Pit without being harassed to vote for a certain candidate, and there were giant wooden signs strewn throughout campus. And no one can forget the all too irritating door-knocking process, in which people came to my door every five minutes asking me to sign some petition.
And what is this Two for Two plan everyone was confused about? You shouldn’t be able to put an amendment on the ballot if no one knows what it is.
Most people weren’t even aware there were debates between the three SBP candidates. It wouldn’t have hurt to put up a few more flyers or announce it on Twitter.
It’s sad and unfortunate that Student Government is basically nonexistent at UNC. With so many strong-minded students, we could have a strong basis for change and progress on our campus.
Students would be a lot more interested in the SBP voting and election process if they thought Student Government actually represented them.