Students should know more about UNC, the UNC system, and understand the ways in which both operate.
Of course, it’s not as fun to learn about the intricacies of Student Government compared to the dunce cap on Wilson Library or as magical as the Pit from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on any given weekday. But students should still understand the structural systems that keep UNC running.
Students should know more about Chancellor Folt than her willingness to take selfies with students. Not only would it be helpful for students to understand how the University works, but it would empower students with the knowledge necessary to be successful and informed leaders on campus.
Between classes, meetings and other obligations, learning about the structural aspects of UNC are not as pressing. But that knowledge would allow students to be more strategic in how they conduct themselves in leadership positions.
For example, if students had more knowledge of how tuition money is distributed, leaders and advisors of the Carolina Union Activities Board would have avoided a majority of the discussions and accusations they endured after they released the lead act of this year’s Jubilee concert, Chase Rice.
Thankfully, recent movements on campus have altered this trend. The controversy surrounding Saunders Hall, protests on campus, and the increasing attention given to the climate and diversity of UNC have increased knowledge within the student body.
Unfortunately, this does not change the fact that students who do not hold leadership positions within student organizations or are not politically involved are at a disadvantage.
Student leaders have easier access to administrators. Through their involvement, they have the ability to gain a greater understanding of policies, regulations and other entities within the university. Although having informed student leaders is fabulous, students who do not fall into the category of “student leader” or “activist” are at risk of remaining ignorant.
Students shouldn’t be required or expected to rattle off each member of the Board of Governors and Board of Trustees or identify the purpose of each cent of the tuition they are paying.
