Student Association members better wake up and smell the coffee while their parents are still around and willing to save their sorry butts.

The SA is a mere toy by which students use to have some minuscule say in what most directly affects their lives.

It is not, as some pathetically egotistical SA-types want to believe, some great political machine.

The SA’s function depends upon the vantage point. Administrators need it because it provides a learning experience for students and it appeases students demanding more power at the university. The simple size and scope of a university prevents a 50-50 split decision between officials and students.

Students look at the SA as a place to learn and gain new experiences—just as the administrators do. But realizing the students don’t get an equal share in the decision-making process, student government then must at least keep the administration on their toes.

Although this in no way implies hanky-panky deals are slithering their way through campus, it does make it a lot easier for students to get screwed.

It’s easier because most people in the SA are so wrapped up in how they look and sound and what kind of stupid power games they think they can play that the real purpose—looking out for students—falls by the wayside.

Barring the few exceptions, this is why the SA is a joke.

And it is at this time of year that the joke turns so childlike. It’s time for the “I’ll take my toys and go home if you don’t vote for me” whining—which typifies why the SA is failing miserably at watching out for students.

But SA members are winning the grand political game. The back-door arm twisting and log rolling are as prevalent as ever—at least that’s what the SA types will tell you.

To be sure there is, you can hear it when talking to SA senators. Before the answers were stupid. Now they are politely stupid. After all, potential voters cannot be offended.

All of this is so unnecessary because there is precious little power. Power is being able to implement good policy or squash bad policy. The SA can’t even get its own house in order.

It’s true the SA can point to some accomplishments. But they don’t balance out when compared to the failures.

As the failures mount, the SA types fall. A resignation here and a no-show there. More important things to do or the standard reason—focusing on personal and academic life. Nice job in accepting and living up to your responsibilities.

Mom and Dad, elated three months previous when told how little junior was a big-shot official, now are told junior left because everything is so childish and petty.

If these people pulled these stunts in the real world they would be in the unemployment line faster than you can say tuition increase. Funny too, how it’s always the other guy.

SA-types must remember not to squander what little power and influence they have. Petty arguments surrounded by clenched fists, pointed fingers and general breast-beating are for professionals.

Not a collection of amateurs.