Methodist University Students Watching Key Issues that Affect Them

The crowd of students inside Methodist University's student center were mixed on which candidates they were supporting. With the university's influx of international students everyone is plugged into and eager to ask questions about the issues that most affect them both now and after they graduate.

Rayvon Shepherd, a junior and Music Education major at Methodist University works with the Student Activities Committee. He enjoys helping plan the social activities and getting students involved on campus. His other title is Mr. Methodist and he represents the university and all that embodies with his enthusiasm and encouragement toward others.

Wearing his green Patch 'Fayetteville for Romney' button, he said that the issue of jobs is a key issue for him as he is in the music education industry. "I always want to make sure the jobs available will have fair wages and also that somebody will be addressing the healthcare issue that needs to be tackled," he said.

"The price to go to school is ridiculous," said Shepherd. "Today's society has made it that you cannot get anywhere without a college education, but then you spend the rest of your life in debt. I'd be interested in seeing the tuition rates brought down.

Chris Harper, a senior and Marketing major, said key issues for him are the economy and the budget cuts that need to be made.

"It's hard to find a job right now," said Harper. "I chose my field accordingly."

Raneisa Bonds a sophomore and Political Science major was looking to hear more from Obama on what other good things he is doing for healthcare, social security and welfare. Other topics on her radar at the end of the night that she'd like to hear more about were Planned Parenthood and student loans.

Ryan Bowyer, the Assistant Director for Campus Life, set up the arrangements for Wednesday night's debate viewing party that was streaming live on a projection screen for the students. Bowyer's role consists of students activities, Greek life and student media. He was pleased with Monday night's attendance at a forum where campaign issues were debated by two Fayetteville businessmen from opposing political parties.

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