Fresh meat are serving it up raw this semester, as they strive to make a statement for themselves as incoming freshman. With over 60 first-year students running for candidacy, this would mark the first class, in years, to have such high candidate numbers.
It may be safe to say that the freshmen this year are coming in with a bang, and making sure their voices are being heard around campus, by getting involved. The student government candidate positions range from class president, senator and attendant. Each position is currently overflowing with ballot options this voting season.
Freshman attendant candidate Anastascia Grant said it’s important for students to get involved, no matter what classification they hold at the university.
“If you want to see change, you have to get involved and be innovative, even if you are just a freshman,” said Grant.
This year freshman candidates are working hard to tackle issues that currently plague the university. The candidates seem to be on one accord when on the subject of financial aid and registration, which Grant said are issues that need to be a priority for anyone running for candidacy this year.
“Financial aid and registration are standard issues that need to be addressed,” said Grant. “However, better communication between the university and its students, more recruiting and community service around Tallahassee, are all vital issues for the university as well.”
Despite how serious some candidates are taking the campaign, some students are skeptical of the earnestness of some of the candidates involved.
Charod Arnold, 19, a second-year engineering student from Tallahassee and campaign volunteer, said some candidates are running for the wrong reasons, and it’s important for students to weed them out.
“I think people are just running to say that they are a part of something and gain popularity, but aren’t really serious about handling student issues,” Arnold said.
Despite Arnold’s doubts about some of the candidates, he said he is confident that there are some worthy competitors on the freshman ballot.
Former students also have high expectations this semester, since applicant numbers are overwhelming this year.
Former SGA board member and alumna, Farah Charles, said she is surprised by the involvement and passion coming from the “baby rattlers.”
“When I was a freshman I was trying to stay low key and party,” said Charles. “I have admiration for our new courageous freshman, and only hope their drive passes on to prospective students.”