It’s no secret that politics is, and has always been, impactful in our modern society. However, it’s very common for college students to overlook one of the most accessible and impactful forms of change right on their campus: student government. Particularly at Skyline College, there is a clear gap in communication between students and the Associated Students of Skyline College.

This issue is clearly seen through the lack of outside voices participating in ASSC meetings. Whether it’s because students don’t understand what student government does or how to make their voices heard, many aren’t using ASSC to drive real change or share their experiences on campus. Student government’s purpose is to advocate for students and make real changes, but this only happens when students take the initiative and understand what student government can do.

It’s not enough for student senators to organize and communicate they can’t force awareness. Thus, it is also the responsibility of students to educate themselves about what student government can accomplish and why participating matters.

While some could argue that ASSC meetings include many statements and requests from clubs and organizations on campus for funding and other assistance with events, these all fall under the “special presentation” portion of ASSC meetings. The lack of use of public comments at ASSC meetings is where the breakdown in communication stems from.

For example, at San Mateo County Community College District Board meetings, community members consistently bring their voices to the public comment section. In contrast, ASSC meetings rarely have any community members speak. These comments are often used to drive change on campus; however, because public comment sections are not being used by students to influence change at ASSC meetings, little progress is being made for the greater good of the community.

If students were to provide more public comments, this could prompt ASSC to share issues with the district Board of Trustees. This would not only use student government as a tool for change, but would also likely ensure that student voices are taken seriously, especially since issues would likely be handled by Michael Llanell-Vararaj, the student trustee.

Understanding student government also helps students gain media literacy. Just as students evaluate whether news on social media comes from a trusted source, the same approach should be applied when examining student government. It is the responsibility of students to invest time in learning how they can participate and understanding what student governments like ASSC can do to solve issues or add necessities to their campus experience.

Too often, students bypass ASSC and go straight to the administration, when student government is an equally effective and often more relatable advocate for their needs. Ultimately, student government only works when students make the effort to understand it. ASSC exists to give students a voice in their campus community, but that voice only becomes powerful if students choose to use it.

Student government isn’t just a formality, it’s an opportunity.

The Skyline View editorial has no byline because it is the voice of TSV’s Editorial Staff.