Talking politics
With a tenuous economy and a slew of international concerns, the gravity of this year's presidential election should not be lost on students.
"Our Election 2008," which will take place at 8 p.m. today in the Charles V. Park Library Auditorium, is a great opportunity for students to familiarize themselves with the issues and candidates, one of who will indelibly shape the country's future.
The event will include leaders from both the College Democrats and College Republicans - two of campus's most prominent political organizations, and sound representatives for their respective political ideologies.
If students have remained uninterested in the current political environment, this is a chance to change that. It's only an hour and will establish a solid political foundation upon which the uninformed may build a suitable body of knowledge.
The discussion's structure, broken into five-minute segments, is ideal for the student who does not want to be overwhelmed by the labyrinthine intricacies of politics yet still would like a basic understanding. It's a springboard.
Of all the recent attempts to cajole a disaffected youth into political discussion, this is one of the most accessible and informative.
It's been said time and time again: Voting is important.
College students should vote. But they should not vote with blinders on - they should know the issues and candidates.
A well-founded political understanding is essential in today's society. Our right to vote gives us a hand in policy-making, and students should not shirk it.
The consequences of this year's election are significant. An economic recession could hinder students' abilities to find a decent-paying job for years to come.
These issues enter into everyday life, and are more than talking points. This election is when students can help chose the country's leader, on basis of their own beliefs, values and critical thought.
