The sky was gray and rain poured down over the quad. The plastic covered benches were unoccupied and the open areas of the campus seemed deserted. But still there was spirit in the air of the student elections. Despite the unpleasant weather, students went out and voted for their peers who ran for key ASB positions.

The second semester ASB elections were held last week at snack and lunch. Students cast their votes during snack and lunch for the positions of ASB President, Vice President, and Director of Fine Arts. These positions are replaced with the newly elected students at the semester, including class presidents and secretaries, unlike the class-specific positions.

Jordan Adajar was elected the new ASB President, Tritia Han ran unopposed for Vice President, and Jennifer Song was elected the Director of Fine Arts. The race for ASB President was too close to decide decisively, so a runoff election was held between Michelle Park and Jordan Adajar after the other positions were decided.

The election had a surprisingly few number of candidates running for not every available ASB position for election. Major positions like ASB Secretary and nearly every director position were left without candidates.

"I think [the lack of candidates] was because people were afraid of campaigning. But people should realize that once you start to campaign, it’s really easy to keep the momentum and try hard," senior Michelle Park said, who also ran for ASB President. "Almost everyone can become a candidate, it’s really empowering to the students."

The ASB elections are one of few ways that students can actively change and direct the activities the school has every year. It is surprising to see such a low turnout and enthusiasm for these elections.

The elections will be back at the same time, next year. The Associated Student Body hopes that it will have a more enthusiastic response. Despite the pressures of campaigning and responsibilities needed as an ASB official, this opportunity should not be missed.