What to Expect During Election Week at UQ

Happy Friday y’all!

If you are one of the many students of UQ, you are probably already aware of the splatters of blue, pink and orange tshirts that are floating around campus this week. To be honest, I’m not too sure when the election dates are, but I’m sure the many, many, many electives stopping you in you innocent walk to class will be more than happy to inform you (as well as why you should vote for them/why you shouldn’t vote for anyone else/why you’re wrong). So, without furtherado, here are a few things to expect during election week at UQ.

1. Being stopped.

You’re walking along, minding your own business. You pass the foodcourt, and it seems okay, just a few clubs trying to get you to join. Then BAM. You walk into the rainbow. Hundreds of people in different coloured shirts in their little tents with their little flyers and their little speeches. You will be stopped. You will be shoved flyers, possibly by more than one party at a time.

Tips to avoid this: Look at your phone. Even at a blank screen. Right now, your whole life is fixated on that phone, and there is no way you can stop for anybody or anything.

2. They will find you.

Just right now, I had to stop mid sentence and flick over to another tab so these guys could talk to me. Unfortunately I haven’t really thought of a better excuse than “I don’t really have time now, just doing an assignment” to scare them away, but if you do, let me know! The scary thing is, I’m no where near the campaigners and flyer stands. I’m in the middle of the Great Court, chilling and minding my own business…. they will find you. And they will inform you.

3. Beware of arguments.

Chances are, these people know a lot more about their party and other parties than you do. Don’t bother arguing about the minor details of student politics. Avoid judgey questions.

4. You get a free food voucher if you vote.

Rumour has it, if you vote, rewards come your way! Who would say no to free food? So think wisely, scan the signs and see who you want in charge of your university.

It’s important to remember that while these campaigners may be annoying, they’re people too, and they have feelings. Try not to crush them about something they are passionate about, regardless of what you think. Be kind, do what Jesus would do, smile and take their flyer.

Enjoy the last few weeks of uni!!

Love,

Anastasia