New group talks about political life

By ALEXANDRA RODRIGUEZ
Collegian Staff Writer

Definitions of sex and morality don't fall along party lines.

Brandon Stefancin saw proof of this when members of the College Democrats debated the presidential impeachment trial. The traditional question of Democrat or Republican has been replaced by broader legal and ethical dilemmas.

Stefancin said he saw the disagreement among students of the same political affiliation as a need for a nonpartisan political forum on campus.

The newly formed Penn State Political Science Club was Stefancin's solution.

"I started this club to take a non-partisan view about the impeachment and wanted other students' opinions, how they felt, whether they belonged to a political channel or not," said Stefancin, the club's president.

"Students need to exert some control in an area where they not only have the right but the responsibility … to get involved with politics," he said. "This club will be active on campus, not only discussing political issues, but also hosting political events."

Steve Smith, president of the College Democrats, said there is no conflict between the two organizations because College Democrats is geared toward one ideology while the club is bipartisan. Several members of his organization have expressed interest in the political science club, he said.

Stefancin added the club welcomes students from all majors.

The idea of a political science club has attracted students with conservative points of view as well. John Venturini (senior-mathematics and statistics), a member of the Penn State Young Americans for Freedom, said Penn State's viewpoint is too liberal and needs a forum for political discussion allowing conservative and liberal views.

Chris Cihyi (junior-political science) said the political science club is arriving at a crucial time in politics.

"At any time political issues are important, but right now, with the Clinton impeachment going on and Iraq, I think it's really relevant to have a forum to discuss these issues," she said. " I don't think we have a forum to discuss national and international issues at Penn State."

Thomas Zarzecki, instructor of political science and the club's adviser, said they are planning activities such as mock debates, speeches and seminars about law and graduate schools. Stefancin also indicated the possibility of a presidential debate for the 2000 elections. Other club events may include informal gatherings, movie nights and field trips, he added.