Though not as hyped up as a presidential election, the local elections that will take place today will have a profound impact on student's lives, whether they realize it or not.

The election will include four seats on the State College Borough Council, three seats for the Centre County Board of Commissioners and one seat for the Court of Common Pleas.

Most importantly, students need to get out and vote. Because school is only in session for nine months out of the year, many of us don't always consider ourselves permanent residents of State College. However, students are just as an important part of this town as those who reside here year round.

If all the students actually went out and voted, elections could be swung, and the most student-friendly candidates could fill the offices.

Issues tackled by the Borough Council are relevant to students. The council approves or rejects proposals for new apartment buildings. They also work on the West End Revitalization Project, which will improve areas surrounding West College Avenue.

Before voting, students can inform themselves by reading The Daily Collegian's voting guide, published in yesterday's paper and available online.

With four seats up for grabs in the State College Borough Council, and with only one incumbent running, students need to look for the candidates with the most experience. Ron Madrid has served as a chairman for the planning commission and the Holmes-Foster Neighborhood Association.

They should also look to those who are sympathetic to student needs and will make sure that no strict divisions are created between town and gown. For example, Charles Gable said that he would like to change the council's mentality about students being "second-class citizens."

Jeff Kern said he believes downtown is the best place for students to live and would support building more and better student housing.

Other candidates are less sympathetic towards students. John Hook said he would like to increase property taxes for apartment buildings, which could raise the cost of rent for students living downtown.

Theresa Lafer said she doesn't support building student housing because there are too many empty apartments downtown.

So get out there and vote. Registered students can vote at the HUB-Robeson Center, as well as at polling locations downtown.

Still think the elections won't affect you?

Try telling yourself that when the council decides to raze your house on West Beaver to build a new apartment building.

Hey, it could happen.