With the Undergraduate Student Government (USG) election in just nine days, and only 12 students running for 27 seats in Senate, the future of this once competitive organization looks bleak. Current members said the group will have to rely on write-in candidates to fill seats, and while some blame students' negative perception of Senate for lack of participation, others, such as USG President Ian Rosenberger, attribute the low number of candidates to a shorter election deadline. And while many reasons can be given for lack of participation, this is, nonetheless, a sad state of affairs for students.

There's been a reputation for infighting, resignations and impeachment attempts. But, with so few students even willing to get involved, there seems to be no hope for reformation here. This could be due in part to apathy, or students might, at this point, be turned off to the entire USG fiasco. What sane persons would throw their hats in a ring founded on negativity and inaction?

In light of its recent history, let's remember how much student government is capable of accomplishing, with the right people in charge. Senators represent students on and off campus. They are supposed to bring our concerns to the table every Tuesday night and have the ability to work with other student groups and administrators for the betterment of their constituents. Just because past representatives have not taken full advantage of this, doesn't mean future senators shouldn't.

Now, this is not to demean write-in candidates. New blood could sweep the election and bring the much needed energy, effort and enthusiasm USG needs. Although, many believed Rosenberger and Vice President Takkeem Morgan to do the same last spring. The major problem with write-in votes is that it invites the possibility for large campus groups, like College Democrats and Black Caucus, to rally their members, and win major presence in what is ideally meant to be a balanced body of students.

With so many varying motives at stake here, the USG elections are not only ridiculous, but even sadder, an accurate representation of what Senate has become. But don't accept this. At this point, students can make a difference just by casting a ballot. So, as always, read up on the issues and platform goals and vote. Student government can still be a positive aspect of Penn State, even after all these years.