Student apathy has
long been a subject of concern at Appalachian State University.
The idea of students revealing a lack of distress over issues that
affect the majority of the student body is nothing new.
But this does not mean it is not still a matter of concern. Why
do students show such a level of apathy over subjects such as tuition
increases and the budget? Well, there could be several reasons.
1. Students aren’t sure what they can do to fix it. 2. Students
may feel their voice cannot be heard. 3. Students simply aren’t
fully informed.
The third choice is truly what must change in order for apathy to
end. If you hear something and the first words to leave your mouth
are: “That’s not fair!” “I didn’t know
that was happening,” “Can they really do that?” etc.,
then don’t stop there! You are concerned about the issue, so
search out some more information. When students realize an issue
exists and then further realize all components to the issue, they
are informed.
If you hear something that upsets you or perhaps something that
you think you should take action for or against, you are much less
likely to do so if you feel you are not an expert on the topic.
To quote a major television network, “The more you know.”
Having a full sense of the situation gives a feeling of empowerment.
This feeling of empowerment can go a long way in the course of taking
action.
How do you become informed? First of all, when you find an issue
that concerns you or you feel you should “do something about,”
do not simply write it off as something you can do nothing about
just because you may not know everything concerning the issue. There
are many ways to gather the information you need. Don’t stop
with the excuse, “I don’t know enough about it.”
That is a weak defense considering the ways you can inform yourself
on this campus.
For starters, read the newspaper. The Appalachian hits newsstands
twice a week and is filled with information relevant to student
concerns. You may even find some answers for which you’ve been
searching.
Get involved! Different clubs and organizations often bring student
issues to the forefront. When people are in groups, they often get
more accomplished. Being part of a club or organization may also
give you a chance to get your voice out there.
Attend Student Government Association meetings. These meetings are
open to anyone wishing to attend, and several topics directly concerning
students are addressed at these meetings. Join in. Let your voice
be heard.
Above all, if you have a question, ask. There may be a group or
individual on campus who may have the answer. Don’t settle
for apathy and lack of knowledge.
Students at Appalachian State pride themselves on, well, Appalachian
pride. This pride includes knowing what’s happening on your
campus and taking an active role in what concerns you as a student.
Don’t just let things happen. Show you care and take the first
step to end apathy: become informed. |
