It's getting pretty close to election time! No, I'm not referring to the provincial election next year, or the municipal one that's right around the corner. I'm referring to the Student Administrative Council elections, where you will elect a representative from your division to sit on the student council and advocate on your behalf. Who's running hasn't been decided yet, because nominations aren't open until Monday September 13.

Why run for student council? You should run because it's an amazing opportunity. You don't have to be knowledgeable in politics or business, and you don't have to be “popular” (believe me — I wasn't). You don't even have to know much about the college (believe me - I didn't). You just need to have the strength and will to work and learn. And I know all of you possess it, because that's what it takes to come to college in the first place.

Not going to lie, it's a lot of work. It's demanding on top of your studies, social life and a parttime job. But you get out what you put in, and when you hope to get a career you love after graduation, being on SAC helps. You'd be stupid to think that anyone on council believes having a vice-president or president position on a resume isn't going to put us above the competition when we're looking for a job in our chosen professions. Of course it's going to help, but that's not the focus of why we get involved. We do it because genuinely love helping students. We get our kicks by giving away free food and opt-out cheques (which should be in soon!), and helping students solve problems. There's no greater feeling than knowing you've helped a student and changed his or her life for the better.

That's why you should run. Get off your ass and pick up a nomination form in our office! Challenge yourself to help others and become a better person in the process. I look forward to meeting and working with all of you this year.