By Meghan Kiely
Contributing Writer
As someone who has been planning and coordinating events on campus for the past two years, if I have learned anything it’s that you can’t please everyone. While perusing my Facebook news feed the other day, I saw a post from someone regarding an event that will take place on campus in a few weeks.
The conversation that followed on that post went on to bash not only the event initially discussed, but also several other events that take place annually on campus. While I understand that everyone has a right to express their opinion, we need to do a better job of making sure the negative opinions are being expressed to the right people in the right manner.
It’s interesting to see who usually has negative opinions about this campus and the events that occur. Nine times out of ten, they’re the people who are the least involved or participatory on campus. I can empathize with that.
My freshman year, I was one of the most uninvolved, introverted students, and that had a direct effect on how much I enjoyed not just my freshman year in general, but how much I enjoyed Saint Rose as a whole. When you don’t take advantage of the things that are presented to you, it’s hard to have an appreciation for this campus and the hard work it takes to plan activities.
However, I learned that if I participated, I would be able to voice my opinions in a way that would be productive and constructive. Not participating in activities on campus is so puzzling. At the very least, proceeds go to a good cause, there are usually prizes involved, and it’s a chance for you to forget about schoolwork for an hour or so. Step out of your comfort zone and give it a chance.
Next time you have something negative to say about the events that happen at Saint Rose, or want to complain about how nothing here appeals to you, my suggestion is to do something about it. Talk about it, yes. Voice your opinion, yes. But know where and how to do so.
I invite those who think so little of the activities that take place on this campus to join a club or run for an e-board position and actually do something about it! If nothing else, if you have a suggestion for an event, contact one of the clubs on campus. Chances are, if you think something would be fun, others would too.
Finally, give credit where it’s due. Students who hold leadership positions on campus work hard every day to make sure that the student body has activities to participate in. On top of schoolwork, off/on-campus jobs, and having a social life, we dedicate hours and hours of our time to try and make your experience here a little better. We enjoy doing this! Seeing others having fun at an event that we have planned makes it all worth it.
Next time you have critical feedback about events at Saint Rose, I would encourage you to do something about it. Make your voice heard. Join a club. Send an email. Suggestions are always welcome. However, bad-mouthing the hard work and dedication of those who planned it will solve nothing.
