Southeast Missouri State University student publication

Posting on Facebook won’t solve your problems

Friday, October 25, 2019
Sophia Davis

Southeast Missouri State University has more than 150 clubs and organizations on campus; how many are you involved in?

Southeast boasts an impressively involved Greek community and a multitude of clubs serving interests ranging from sports to Harry Potter. We have honor societies, eSports and intramural teams, as well as other organizations dedicated to bringing awareness to issues in our society.

To make a long story short, there’s a lot to do here. I’d go as far as to say there’s something for everyone.

John F. Kennedy said, “Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” And so I ask you, reader, what do you do for the university? For your community?

All too often we are swarmed with complaints about the university, ranging from meal plan mishaps to parking predicaments. Very rarely do I see an uplifting or positive post on my feed. Even more rare than positivity posts are posts dedicated to facilitating change. How can we make change if we do not apply ourselves?

Imagine how much we could accomplish if we applied ourselves to make some serious change. Kayla Patek is an excellent example of making a commitment to change. She experienced a problem on campus, and she took steps to make a difference.

What started as a reference to a parking issue has evolved into meetings with city council and coverage on TV, and in this very paper. She made the commitment to fixing an issue that impacted the safety of students on campus. She persevered through doubters and other disgruntled students who viewed crosswalk parking as a nuisance rather than a safety concern.

What if we could all be a little bit more like that? Speak up in class when you have an opinion. Stand up for your friends when they are too shy to speak for themselves. Speak out against wrongdoings. Pick up trash on the side of the road. Join an organization that advocates for an issue you’re passionate about. Start an organization if there isn’t one already.

Nothing can be done if we do not take action. So, dear reader, take action.

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