Students gripe about misspent money for Student Association entertainment, tuition bills and under-funding of clubs, but chances are those irate students aren't trying to do something about it. The Student Association student activity fee referendum elections are today and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Student Union, and this vote is that student's chance to do something
Whether students vote yes or no, it is their duty to vote. If you feel that the fee is misused or just too much, then voice your opinion. If you feel that the fee supports a social life that is unique to UB, then cast your ballot now.
Yes: By voting to keep the $80 student activity fee mandatory, you allow the Student Association to continue to bring major social events and services to campus. Voting yes is voting to support free fall and spring fests, club funding and free movies and events; aside from the flashy shows, the activity fee keeps a lot more afloat than most students would think. Sub-Board I programs like the student health center and medical insurance depend on SA funding. Even the student voice of The Spectrum and The Generation rely in part on the fee. Without the mandatory fee, concerts would cost students money and the opportunities to see figures like the Dalai Lama and Conan O'Brien would be scarce and unorganized.
When looking at the grand scheme of things, is $80 really that much? With over $700 of the student comprehensive fee going towards intercollegiate sports, technology and transportation, doesn't $80 for entertainment and social life seem like a drop in a bucket?
No: You aren't a member of Club Dance Dance Revolution or an intramural dodge ball team, you don't waste your time attending 'has-been' concerts or seeing babbling politicians in the distinguished speakers series, and you would rather watch the history channel than 'Main St. Confessions' on SATV. In college you are faced with many choices, and if you choose not to participate then that's your prerogative. By voting 'No,' many Sub-Board I programs would disappear and the SA would become obsolete. This year's free concerts and events would cost money in the future, but the student would have the choice of spending his or her money on individual events.
Many students have been bombarded by the quarter-sheet fliers in the Student Union or have seen an ad on a chalkboard or in a publication, so there is no excuse for missing the vote. Ten percent of undergrads must vote this week or the poll will be scrapped and redone later on. Although that percentage seems low, this mark may prove to be a daunting task, because the majority of students just don't vote.
Don't let SA advertisement or other students impose their ideas on what you should do. Vote 'yes' for the social events you and your friends enjoy or 'no' because you don't want to spend money on events you don't go to; just remember to make your own decision and cast that ballot. Your vote impacts campus services and social life for the next two years, and such an issue should not be taken lightly.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
