Cookies + GSB = Fun
September 13, 1999
Did you know that each student at Iowa State has two Government of the Student Body senators representing him or her?
But how many students know who their representatives are, or when GSB meetings are held, or for that matter, how exactly GSB works?
Today’s the day to learn.
GSB is hosting “Meet Your Government Day,” a chance for ISU students to meet the student leaders who determine what money their clubs and organizations get, decide whether the Brown Route will run every 20 minutes or 40 minutes and, in many cases, are the main links to the ISU administration.
GSB senators, cabinet members and finance committee members will be dishing out cookies and refreshments during today’s event, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. south of the Campanile.
It’s the perfect opportunity not only to get a snack between classes but to get to know the people who represent the student government.
In an interview with the Daily, GSB Vice President Garrett Toay said part of the reason for the event is to dispel some misunderstandings about GSB, such as that senators are inaccessible or that they believe they are above the rest of the student body.
There often are misconceptions about GSB, from what they do to whom they represent. The answer is simple: They represent us, all of us, and ISU students should take advantage of every opportunity to get acquainted with them.
On the other hand, if you do know a little about GSB but believe these ideas or think what they’re doing isn’t right, use this event as an opportunity to voice your opinions to your leaders.
That’s what they’re there for.
Like any other elected officials, GSB is supposed to represent all ISU students. Often times, crucial issues such as CyRide’s Brown Route or whether Veishea should be alcohol-free are decided largely by the input and feedback senators receive from their constituents.
It’s often all too easy to complain about GSB but never make any sort of contact with them. This doesn’t help the senators, and it certainly doesn’t help ISU students.
It works two-fold: the way ISU students can have GSB work for them is to talk to them, and the only way GSB can serve the students is by knowing the students.
So take a moment out of your busy day to meet the people who serve you. Otherwise, don’t complain.