_Maia Ferdman: UCLA students should participate in Westwood Neighborhood Council_

Living in California during the general election may make UCLA students feel ignored or unimportant in the political arena. Presidential campaigns, which generally focus on swing states, may seem too distant to justify our civic engagement.

_Students must become aware of non-financial methods that allow their political voices to be heard_

When supporting a national campaign, not everyone has the option to “put their money where their mouth is” ““ especially not University of California students who are likely more preoccupied with paying for the rising costs of tuition.

However news outlets and campaign tours are increasingly shifting their focus to campaign fundraising.

Despite this shift, the student vote remains an important constituency to both candidates, as shown by Obama’s victory in 2008.

_Battle of the Columnists: The higher education debate in the 2012 election_

President Obama’s higher education policies have consistently benefited students, rather than prioritized private business interests at students’ expense.

Last week, presidential hopeful Mitt Romney released his three-pronged strategy for restoring America’s higher education system. In it, he outlined a plan that would make post-secondary schooling more affordable by increasing private sector participation.

Law schools accomodate dwindling job market with reduced class sizes, focus on practical experience

The job market for lawyers is reportedly shrinking, and law schools are responding through a variety of measures, including reductions in class sizes and efforts to offer opportunities for practical experience in the field.