The Issue: Applications coming due for UGBC positions
What we think: Concerned, creative students should apply
In the wake of an especially contentious election for the leaders of the Undergraduate Government of Boston College (UGBC), the typical chorus of skeptical student opinion has been quick to point out that the UGBC is ineffective or a waste of money or not representative of the larger student populace.
Now more than ever, these complaints seem unwarranted. The current president Jenniffer Castillo, A&S '08, and vice president Dan Sievers, A&S '08, have committed themselves to combating an unruly bureaucracy with substantial cuts and mergers and putting a greater emphasis on the biggest and most important issues on campus. This year's accomplishments demonstrated the effectiveness of their leadership, but also the effectiveness of the many capable and creative people working under them.
As with any organizational structure, the UGBC is only as strong as its constituent parts. Though the leaders have a big impact on the mission and administration of the programs, the cabinet and bureaucracy play an extremely important role in making the student government work.
This year's applications were made available on March 16 and will be due on Tuesday, March 25. The purpose of these positions is to involve as many motivated and creative students in the governmental process, and in the end, to foster the best possible undergraduate experience. It is very easy to write a letter and criticize, but it is much more difficult and noteworthy to accept a challenge and campaign for change. The positions in the bureaucracy have been specifically created for those students who feel that they can help the UGBC improve. Those who still glibly toss harsh appraisals of the UGBC without applying for these positions are not only lazy, but hypocritical.
We encourage all students who feel that the undergraduate government of this University does not do anything to apply for a cabinet position. Are you worried that the school administration does not care about being green? There is an Environmental Issues cabinet position just for you. Do you feel that religious diversity is not adequately taken into account? Apply to be the next director of Religious Affairs. Are you worried about BC's fan culture? Why not encourage Superfandom as the director of Athletic Affairs? Even if you aren't chosen for these positions, getting your name in the hat is a important precursor to getting more involved. As almost every conceivable facet of student life is covered through the UGBC, it is possible for you to make a palpable difference in almost any area of the University.
Those students who want to commit themselves to working for progress are encouraged to attend the UGBC Cabinet information sessions tonight from 8 to 9 p.m.in Gasson 305, and tomorrow at the same times in Cushing 001. All position descriptions are available online at ugbc.org/positions.php.
2008 Woodie Awards
