College Students’ Guide to Government Shutdowns
As college students, it's easy to get caught up in the chaos of academic life, social activities, and personal goals. However, staying informed about current events, especially those that can directly impact your life and future, is crucial. One event you might have heard about is the possibility of a government shutdown. Now, not to worry, this is not as uncommon as you may think. But what exactly is it, and why should college students care? Let's break it down.
What is a Government Shutdown?
A government shutdown happens when funding runs out, temporarily closing non-essential government services and agencies. This occurs when Congress fails to pass new funding legislation or a continuing resolution to keep the government operational. The result? Federal employees may be furloughed (sent home without pay) or required to work without pay until funding is restored.
Has It Happened Before?
Yes, government shutdowns have happened multiple times, usually resulting from political disagreements between lawmakers. The longest and one of the most recent examples was the government shutdown that occurred from December 2018 to January 2019.
What Causes Government Shutdowns?
Shutdowns often revolve around disputes over budget and spending. Lawmakers from different political parties may disagree on funding levels, distributions, or specific spending priorities. This has been occurring increasingly as political parties become more extremist and the middle ground becomes more challenging to find. Sometimes, controversial policy provisions are attached to spending bills, creating more disagreements. In some cases, politicians use shutdowns to gain leverage or force concessions from their opponents.
How Does It Affect College Students?
Although most colleges and universities have minimal reliance on the federal government, Jon Fansmith, senior vice president of government relations at the American Council on Education, says, "Just the ability of the department to effectively function is going to be limited, and while short term that might not be noticeable outside the building, the longer it goes, it's going to really have an impact." Here are some examples of that:
Financial Aid: If a government shutdown occurs, it can disrupt the processing of federal financial aid applications, potentially delaying the disbursement of grants and loans that many college students rely on to cover tuition and living expenses.
Research Opportunities: For students involved in research programs, government shutdowns can affect federal research funding and the ability to access government resources, potentially disrupting ongoing projects.
Internships and Jobs: Students seeking internships or employment with federal agencies may find their opportunities delayed or affected by a shutdown.
Economic Impact: Shutdowns can have a broader economic impact, potentially affecting job markets and consumer confidence, which, in turn, can impact your post-graduation job prospects.
Why Should College Students Care?
Civic Engagement: As future leaders and citizens, college students must engage with government affairs and understand the impact of political decisions.
Personal Finances: Government shutdowns can have real financial consequences for college students, affecting their ability to pay for education and living expenses.
Career Planning: If you're considering a government or public service career, understanding how government shutdowns work is crucial.
Advocacy: Knowledge empowers you to advocate for policies and solutions that align with your values and priorities.
In conclusion, government shutdowns are not just distant political events; they can directly affect college students' lives. Staying informed, engaging in civic activities, and advocating for responsible governance are essential steps in navigating the challenges posed by government shutdowns. As college students, you have a stake in the future; being well-informed is vital to shaping it.
Strike out,
Julia Melo
Boca Raton
Julia Melo is a content writer for Strike Magazine Boca. Born in Brazil and on the same day as Queen B(eyoncé), this Virgo loves anything art and fashion-related. In her free time, you can find her lost in a good book or hanging out with friends. You can reach her on insta @juliaamelo__ or email juliaamelo99@gmail.com
