She was only chosen because of her novelty as a woman; she is anti-feminist; she is too inexperienced.

Those are some of the biggest complaints I hear from critics about Republican Vice Presidential Nominee, Alaskan Gov. Sarah Palin.

So why would Sen. John McCain choose her as his running mate?

“Palin has certainly energized the base, something McCain desperately needed, but it is still too early to tell what affect, if any, she will have on the outcome of the race,” said Dr. Matthew Streb, associate professor and director of Undergraduate Studies in the department of political science.

From what I know as fact about Gov. Palin and seeing her speech the other night, I can honestly say I am impressed by the little-known governor from Alaska. I do agree to a point that McCain chose Palin for her novelty as a woman, but to say it is the only reason is ignorant. Her short but intense resume is impressive. She was on the Wasilla City Council, became the city’s mayor, was elected governor of Alaska, and now is the Republican Vice Presidential nominee . Considering this was all done in 14 years, with an approval rating of 90 percent, it is an incredible feat.

The belief that Palin is an anti-feminist because of her pro-life stance is, I believe, untrue. According to an article from the Anchorage Daily News in 2006, Palin is “pro-contraception and [is] a member of a pro-woman but anti-abortion group called Feminists For Life.”

Palin is openly proud of her 17-year-old daughter’s recent choice to raise her child.

“I believe in the strength and the power of women, and the potential of every human life,” Palin said in the 2006 article.

As for her critics claiming her lack of experience, Palin told TIME Magazine in an Aug. 29 article by Tiffany Sharples, “That’s a healthy thing. That means my perspective is fresher.”

College Republicans Vice President Andrew Bogda agreed that Palin is the right choice for the Republican ticket.

“From the City Council, to the oil companies, to the party bosses, to the union bosses, to state government, Gov, Palin has fought corruption, reformed government and made change happen,” Bogda said.

Bogda also noted how Gov. Palin is the only candidate running on a presidential ticket who possesses executive experience.

“I think she is a great pick and will make a great vice president,” Bogda said.

I couldn’t have said it better myself.