In 1981, a rodent placed second in the vote for Undergraduate Student Government president.

Wimpy the Gerbil not only generated 1,422 votes -- roughly one-third of the total -- but also placed first in West Halls and East Halls district one. Last year, Seth Williams and Amy Manderino won the election with only 449 more votes than that long-tailed runner-up secured eight years ago.

Although the popular belief that USG elections don't matter may have peaked during 1981's rat race, today only about 10 percent of students continue to cast ballots. This apathy is unfortunate.

While cynicism about their effectiveness may be convenient and fashionable, our elected officials can make a difference, especially if they have the support of undergraduate students.

USG leaders often set the agenda of issues that get into and remain in the spotlight. This year's candidates offer proposals on issues ranging from safety to minority student concerns to the quality of an undergraduate education at the University. Students should consider their choice carefully because it will determine a large portion of priorities for the coming year.

USG oversees the functions and responsibilities of its various departments including Women's Concerns, Legal Affairs, Human Relations, Political and International Affairs -- departments which provide information, advice and services necessary for creating a quality student environment.

The president and vice president must staff these divisions and ensure their effective operation. The vice president chairs the USG senate and both officials sit on USAB, a representative council of student leaders that advises University President Bryce Jordan. These responsibilities necessitate a reasoned choice of leaders.

In addition to the executive positions, students also will elect USG senators and residence hall area representatives today. These officials deal with more immediate concerns affecting daily student life, such as the dorm-access cards. These votes also matter, as the students elected represent a grass-roots level of student government.

Areas to cast student votes include:

-- Students living in Centre Halls in Simmons or McElwain Hall.

-- East Halls residents in Findlay Commons.

-- North Halls students in Warnock Commons.

-- Pollock Halls students in Pollock Recreation Room.

-- South Halls residents in Redifer Commons.

-- West Halls residents in Waring Commons.

-- Town and fraternity students may vote on the HUB's ground floor or at Willard Building.

For this election, students should not take the "Wimpy" alternative: they should take the initiative to cast their ballots for the candidate of their choice.