LETTERS: Get Involved

To the Editor: But it seems to me that every day I hear someone complain that the University is not responsive to the needs of students, that the stores are too upscale or that the dining food is absolutely lousy. While, unfortunately, that's what most students do talk about, it would be fine only if they were talking to the right people -- those who make the decisions. When I mention this to students they say, "Yeah, like the administration will listen to just one student here." Well here is your chance to get off your ass and do something about it. Most changes that happen in this University are a result of decisions made in the University's committees. These committees cover topics from recreational facilities to how the University spends its money. Some of the most important decisions the University has made over the past few years were directly influenced by the student representatives on the committees. These decisions include the design of the new bookstore, the development of the college house project and plans for the Perelman Quad. So how are you get appointed to such a position? Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to be a campus leader right now or be serving in student government. All you need be is a student with a strong interest and desire to change things at the University. If you are interested in a position, complete the application in today's Daily Pennsylvanian and submit it to the Nominations and Elections Committee in the lobby of Hamilton College House from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 15. Additional information about running for a position can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.sas.upenn.edu/ ~bkr. While not everyone can be selected for a position, rest assured that the issues you raise in your application will be considered carefully by the representatives selected. You may be intimidated by the idea of working on a committee with the administrators, faculty and Trustees of the University. However, they asked for your input and they want to hear your concerns. It is important that you take advantage of this opportunity, as your voice can dramatically change the decisions the University makes. With your input, many of the changes the University makes can continue to make the University of Pennsylvania a better place for students to live and learn -- so get off your ass and run for a University committee. Daniel Grabell College '00 The writer is vice chairman for public relations of the Nominations and Elections Committee.