n I am writing not to try to explain to students the importance of voting in the Student Union election, as I am sure the Student Elections Commission is doing an adequate job. However, I write to express my concern to students of the mistakes they can make in their decision process. A slate does not mean that you must vote for all members in one or none at all. I say this because I believe that the strongest candidate, in general, for any position is Elena Quattrone for secretary. I would not vote for others in her slate, but she is the strongest candidate.
Furthermore, I believe that candidates for president that run on their own lose strength because they do not have extra funds available to them because of a joint venture. In saying that, I believe Adil Yunis is the strongest presidential candidate because he brings many students together. Elena Quattrone is an activities assistant in the Student Activities Office and has been in the Union longer than most candidates. That is why I had a hard time understanding why she did not run for president or vice president. I believe that she unites people and is very charismatic, an attribute I cannot place in many other candidates.
Yunis has made it his job to be part of meetings with many student groups and governments on campus. The important thing to note is that it was not just yesterday he did this. He understood that he needed to make real relationships with real people as a person, not a politician. I have spoken with many of these organizations’ leaders and have been told nothing but great things about him. I met with him a few weeks ago to get to know him and hear what his ideas for the future are, and I was floored.
He understands that it is more than just a title. He knows that it is about the everyday student, not just the ones at every meeting.
I may not know much and those who read this will take what they want out of it. I do not mean this as an attack on any candidate, but the truth must be said. There is a reason why people try to create slates. I would challenge The Daily Free Press to find out a little more about what other student leaders in the BU community have to say about current candidates. I think they will find good reason to do so, as I think current student leaders are the best judge of those who have been in leadership roles and those who would like to be. The Free Press must not report just what it gets from the candidates because sometimes the information is inflated or wrong.
Ricky Junquera
CAS ’08
Former Student Union Secretary