Perhaps it's the ever-increasing tuition, or maybe it's the lack of housing and parking at Penn State. Maybe candidates campaigned more effectively, or maybe it was just luck.

Whatever the reason, 5,936 student voters turned out for this year's UPUA elections -- 3,334 more than last fall, a good sign in the battle against student apathy.

Pending confirmation from the UPUA Elections Commission, Hillary Lewis and Frank Keller will take over the UPUA presidency and vice presidency -- and they've got their work cut out for them.

UPUA is still trying to establish itself as a credible student government, not only at Penn State but also in the Big Ten.

To do that, Lewis and Keller are going to have to work hard to accomplish short-term goals while working on long-term plans at the same time.

It's important to tackle tough issues such as tuition and student housing, but those goals may take longer than one term. The most important thing is to make progress.

Tell students why they should care, and show them how things going on at Penn State affect them.

Several of this year's UPUA candidates had a plethora of good ideas. Why not invite them to help in some form?

It's important that UPUA recognizes the goals of various student groups. Lewis and Keller need to make themselves accessible to those groups and focus on getting diverse opinions and input.

Work with the administration, but don't be afraid to challenge them.

Ask the questions students want to be asked. Where is the money going? How is Penn State working to increase diversity?

Platform goals are a great start, but they're more than just a way to get elected.

Show students UPUA is making a difference in their experience at Penn State.

It's important UPUA become more easily accessible to the students, and using Web technology is a great way to do that.

The UPUA president and vice president have a tremendous responsibility, but they also have a great opportunity.

On their campaign Web site, www.fandlewis.com, Lewis and Keller's slogan states "Vote for action, not change."

An increase in voter turnout is a good start, but to keep students' faith in UPUA they must be able to see that action.