We have all heard the cliché that everything old eventually becomes new again, but then there are those things which just do not seem to change much over time. “We get a one-sided education at the Institute ... and must do some reading and writing for ourselves if we do not wish to appear narrow-minded ... after leaving Troy.” You may think that’s a valid point, given our course schedules, but consider this: it’s quoted from The Poly’s editorial page in 1885.
Many students here still do as little reading and writing as they find possible. In addition, few take much interest in events on this campus or current events in the world at large. At the same time, however, reading, writing, and knowledge of what’s going on in the world have never been more important.
It’s crucial that while people are here, they do branch out at least a little beyond their major. The columns on the next page will suggest joining Union activities and greek organizations, and I could certainly suggest joining The Poly. Even if you decide not to do any of these, though, you should at least do some things that are not required for your major. For example, spend some time reading up on news, politics, or take an elective that has nothing to do with your major. Either way, try not to make your entire focus while you are here in just one area—that’s what graduate school will be for.
One reason to take some time to look over current events is that in just over two months, RPI students and people across the country will go to the polls and vote. Before people vote, though, they should research the candidates and the issues, and that requires context that comes with keeping up on the news. While some may not realize it now, the events taking place could easily have a large impact on their future careers or lives.
After people have decided how they want to vote, the next step is actually voting. Turnout for student elections on campus is fairly low and so is the turnout in municipal elections and the only way to change that is for people to vote. If you haven’t registered to vote, take the steps needed to change that. One cannot truly have a voice in any democracy unless they go out and vote. The individuals elected in November for local, state, or national office could all have quite a large impact and, as such, everyone has a vested interest in the election’s outcome.
If you’re interested in writing more, you’re obviously more than welcome to stop at our table at the Activities Fair this Thursday, or send an e-mail to poly@rpi.edu. Regardless of whether or not you are interested in joining our staff, we’re always looking for feedback from the community we serve; feel free to contact myself or any members of the editorial board, as listed in the staff box on the lower left. Finally, if you want to send us a letter for publication—on this issue or any other—just follow the instructions in the staff box on the lower left side of this page.
On behalf of the entire editorial board, have a good start to the semester. Welcome (back) to RPI!
