Seniority

A response to a comment.

Someone asked for my perspective on seniority, and considering that I’m running out of ideas for topics, I’ll give this one a try.

In short, seniority is very important and very valid. But it’s important to look at the word “seniority”. It doesn’t say “classority”, just “seniority”.

Sorry juniors, you are upperclassmen but you aren’t seniors. The difference one year makes is huge. In my opinion, seniors should get privileges but all the other classes should adjust based on merit.

The reason for this is because it is our last year. Our last opportunity. As seniors we are going through our final experiences, as a result we expect good treatment. For the other classes it’s just another year, another game.

When you think about it, we aren’t asking for much. A guaranteed spot in the front row, a chance to lead, closer relations with staff and administrators that allows us to get away with more, and a few other small things. That’s not all that much. Besides that, most of what we get has to do with experience.

In an ideal world, the front of the section would be filled with all seniors who are willing to scream their heads off. Behind that is the loudest mix of people from all classes with the quiet people standing in the back.

If a freshman will go harder than a junior, they should get a better spot with more perks. That just makes sense. But if a junior goes harder than a senior, the senior takes priority. Why? Because it’s the right thing to do.

That being said, seeing seniors in the front row display behavior that should put them in the back row is frustrating. I do believe that at a certain point it shouldn’t matter what grade you’re in, if you suck, you suck. It’s as simple as that. I don’t care who you are, if you’re drunk off your ass and don’t want to stand up and cheer for the game, you can get the hell out.

There should be consequences to being a crappy senior, and I think a loss of the privileges that come with being a senior would be adequate.

If you are a senior, you deserve seniority. But you should still act like you are trying to prove something. If you aren’t a senor, you do have to earn it. But don’t worry, if you can’t earn it your time will come. Possibly sooner than you want.  

Life sneaks up on you. Make the most of it and respect your elders.

Roll Cougs