We’ve got a fantastic chance to make RPI a better place. The Student Life Committee of the Student Senate was created this year for the purpose of addressing all issues at RPI which fall under the Student Life umbrella. As the chair of this committee, I’ve been given the task of prioritizing the myriad issues, which the committee has the opportunity of addressing.
This year, some of the possibilities include promoting Institute transparency, improving the judicial system at RPI, improving access to Troy for RPI students, addressing possible changes in housing requirements, the creation of an honor code, informing students of their rights, addressing dining services issues, and improving school spirit and athletics.
We’re going to be focusing on the upcoming Residence Life changes (like the possible sophomore housing requirement) so that we can be involved from the get-go to ensure student input. We’re also going to put emphasis on student rights. Currently in production is a website that has all of the documents necessary for a student to know his or her rights, and we will be inviting members of the administration to address the Student Senate monthly to promote transparency and communication— something that has fallen by the wayside in past years.
Also, be on the lookout for changes in the Judicial Board, as there will be strong collaboration and communication between the Student Life Committee and J-Board, with the goal of improving all aspects of the judicial system.
But, these are just a microcosm of possible issues. In fact, just about any project which doesn’t fall under hosting events, improving facilities, or academic affairs could be addressed by the Student Life Committee. That brings me to the most important part of this piece: If you have something that you’re passionate about on campus that you would like to see improved, implemented, or done away with, you have the opportunity to work with us to do so! We’ll collaborate to make sure that you have all of the resources necessary to accomplish your goals. Addressing possible improvements is one of the best ways to show that you care, so come on out and let’s make RPI a better place!
If you’re interested, we meet every Tuesday night at 7 pm in the Student Government Suite on the third floor of the Rensselaer Union. I look forward to meeting any interested students, and I welcome any thoughts, comments, or questions regarding the Student Life Committee. Feel free to e-mail me at neidha@rpi.edu, or come to a Senate meeting on Mondays at 6:30 pm in Union Room 3202.
Editor’s Note: Grand Marshal Kara Chesal ’09 has asked her committee chairs to write a series of “Top Hats” in her stead.
