Today’s executive debate was an exciting time–it resembled much more of a debate, with actual rebuttals that we peace-loving member-at-large candidates didn’t use at all. Oops. I will say that I was incredibly impressed with certain candidates’ comportment, disappointed by others’. Right now, I know exactly who I’m supporting for which positions, and would be happy to discuss these choices in person–writing it down alas makes it “slate-like behaviour,” the boone and bain of this election.

Now it’s time to make sure that SFU students get out and vote–I’m honestly concerned about the legitimacy of anything the SFSS does if only 5% of students turn out to vote. Can we really say we’re representing student voices when 95% of them haven’t told us what they think? (Or, maybe they’re telling us loud and clear that they just don’t care, that the issues we spend so much time debating really don’t matter to the average student. There’s a radical thought.) A friend mentioned to me yesterday that mandatory, online voting in order to enroll would be a great way to ensure that everyone gets involved. Other than a somewhat logistical nightmare of trying to get this endorsed by the administration, I can’t help but agree–even if students tick the “I don’t care, I’m just doing this to enroll in classes” box, at least they might spend a couple more minutes looking into the issues, or telling us what issues matter to them.

Xenia hit the nail on the head today when she said that we need to do more “market research” (yes, she’s a business student, heh) to find out what students actually need. A new website, a visible board of directors that doesn’t hide behind copious amounts of posters in Maggie Benston, a clear message for students–we work for you, tell us what you want and we’ll actually get it done!–all steps (in my eyes) that need to be taken to ensure that the SFSS doesn’t go down the drain as quickly as the CFS seems to be.  Maybe we’ve learned a lesson?

Uh, anyway, back to my Shakespeare homework!

When I began at SFU, Orientation’s catch phrase was, “Begin a journey… leave a legacy.” I’ve discovered just how true this statement has become for me. Going into fourth year, I know what needs to be done, and I’m driven to find out what more CAN be done. I’m not in this for the politics; I’m here for YOU, to meet your everyday needs in tangible, real ways. A clean, comfortable, safe campus. Affordable and healthy food options. A spirit of unity, collaboration, and cooperation. The SFSS should work for you—vote for the Members-at-Large who will! (As written for the Peak’s next issue.)