College student governments ramp up their efforts as election season draws near. Student government leaders are crucial in motivating their peers to take part in and remain informed during local, state, or national elections. However, how is the student body involved in student government at this time?

Creating a passion for the democratic process is one of the most important responsibilities of student government during election season. Events like candidate Q&A sessions, debate watch parties and voter registration drives are regularly planned by student leaders. In addition to promoting a feeling of community, these activities also make voting less intimidating and more enjoyable, especially for students new to this process.

To make sure students know how to register and when deadlines are approaching, student government representatives on many campuses work with local civic engagement groups or organizations like Rock the Block/Vote. Also, by placing tables in busy areas like the dining halls or student union, they bring the process directly to the students, making sure no one can use the excuse of “I didn’t know how”.

“I honestly never bothered going out of my way to vote, but when it was right there in front of me, it didn’t seem like such a hassle”, says Guilherme, a junior.

Voting can be frightening, especially for people who have never done it before. Student governments are often responsible for education. They try to educate students about the issues, sometimes setting up nonpartisan information sessions where they can learn about the candidates and public vote in a language without all the political acronyms, in addition to merely registering them to vote.

Voter guides that highlight the key points in simple, easy-to-read language are also prepared by certain student governments specifically for their student body. When students are voting on local issues that they might not be familiar with, this is extremely helpful.

Therefore, the next time you see a student government table or event that emphasizes voting, keep in mind that their goal is to create the next generation of engaged citizens, one vote at a time, rather than just selling paperwork.
What the Student Government has been doing.
Rock the vote event hosted by Prof Eric Budd
Election Night Watch Party
Email outreach for voter registration