| College freshmen empower politics |
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| Written by Alyssa Siegele, Daily Vidette Reporter |
| Monday, 02 February 2009 00:00 |
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A new study shows that college freshmen engage in political activity and discussion more than any other year since 1968. Due to last year's historic election and recent inauguration of Barack Obama, more college students have politics on the brain. UCLA's Higher Education Research Institute reported that 36 percent of students frequently discussed politics with others, compared to 34 percent in 1968. In 2002 that percentage reached only 20. "Students of all ages felt called to action because of the current state of affairs. Our nation is at war, our economy is in trouble, a college education is increasingly unaffordable, healthcare is difficult to access and jobs are less available," Jennifer McDade, lecturer in the School of Communication, said. Now more than ever, with access to news channels, radio, blogs and the Internet, students can learn the issues involved in politics and the economy with ease. "College students are, to some degree, as exposed as anyone," McDade said. "We face many of the same challenges as we did in 1968." "We have to learn a lesson though, it's critical to get involved, be involved, and stay involved no matter what shape the world is in." Much of this involvement stems from the increased amount of education students receive in high schools and universities, and professors perpetuate this trend. "It's imperative that young involved. We must be a part of restoring the social contract and that means not only voting but also having an ongoing commitment to engaging in the process," McDade said. "For college students that means applying what they are learning to solve the problems of the community, nation and world." "I definitely feel more involved and interested than I ever have before. I think that I am just now realizing that it does affect my future and everyone around me," Maggie Furnas, sophomore family and consumer science major, said. Many students have decided this year to attend their second- and third-choice schools due to the inflation of tuition costs. Over 17 percent of students accepted at their first-choice university chose cheaper, second-choice alternatives. Another important topic of interest to new students is money. Because of the dismal economy and displeasing job market, many students fear what lies past graduation and have taken active roles in securing their futures. Plenty of organizations and clubs exist where students can voice their opinions amongst others who share their interest. "Students interested in civic and political engagement should go to www.trustus.info and register," McDade said. "Many students are more educated than their parents were in the decades of the 60s and 70s, engaging in civic and political problem solving is a great and necessary part of being a college student in 2009." |
