2008 Woodie Awards
Senior urges students to take a stand
Kyle Drennen '07
Issue date: 4/19/07 Section: Commentary
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In my first commentary article for The Cowl I talked about the importance of college students in determining the outcome of elections. In reference to the then upcoming 2004 election, I said, "Right here at PC, we have the very people who can decide this election and all they have to do is vote." This article was not only unique because it was my first, but also because it was one of the few articles in which I was not interested in what political side someone was on, but simply that they were active in the political process. Now while I certainly do have strong opinions about which is the "right" side, I think it is more important than ever for our generation to be interested in the issues that affect us even if we disagree on how to address those issues.
While at Providence College I have seen students of all political stripes demonstrate their passion for issues. I have walked countless streets and knocked on more doors than I can remember with fellow students during the past two elections that have taken place during my four years at PC. I have witnessed numerous debates and discussions on campus between opposing sides on issues ranging from presidential platforms, to national security, to free speech on campus. I have seen fellow activists march for life in Washington, D.C., and for artistic expression on campus. I have been amazed by the willingness of students to take the time to set up 1,500 flags on anniversaries of 9/11 and stay up all night to fight cancer during the Relay for Life. Anyone who thinks that most college students are apathetic should come to Providence College and see a fraction of the dedication and hard work that I have seen displayed by so many on this campus.
When I think of the many challenges our nation faces today and will continue to face in the future, I am reassured by the fact that many of my fellow students care deeply about finding ways to meet these challenges through dedicated public service. I think that one of the greatest strengths here at PC is the emphasis on, and commitment to, community service. The idea that one must think of others before oneself and give back to society is one of the greatest values I have learned and seen in practice on this campus.
While at Providence College I have seen students of all political stripes demonstrate their passion for issues. I have walked countless streets and knocked on more doors than I can remember with fellow students during the past two elections that have taken place during my four years at PC. I have witnessed numerous debates and discussions on campus between opposing sides on issues ranging from presidential platforms, to national security, to free speech on campus. I have seen fellow activists march for life in Washington, D.C., and for artistic expression on campus. I have been amazed by the willingness of students to take the time to set up 1,500 flags on anniversaries of 9/11 and stay up all night to fight cancer during the Relay for Life. Anyone who thinks that most college students are apathetic should come to Providence College and see a fraction of the dedication and hard work that I have seen displayed by so many on this campus.
When I think of the many challenges our nation faces today and will continue to face in the future, I am reassured by the fact that many of my fellow students care deeply about finding ways to meet these challenges through dedicated public service. I think that one of the greatest strengths here at PC is the emphasis on, and commitment to, community service. The idea that one must think of others before oneself and give back to society is one of the greatest values I have learned and seen in practice on this campus.