By now you've probably seen an article, a few infographics, and a slew of tweets about Romney's selection of Paul Ryan as his running mate. One topic at the forefront of those discussions is long-term debt - both our federal government's debt, and the $194.8 billion American students owed their government in student loans in 2012 alone. But with all the debate about how best to address it and whose plan is best, one group of Americans have been largely left out of the conversation: the students themselves.
Up to Us, a new campus competition launched by the Clinton Global Initiative University, the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, and Net Impact, gives students an opportunity to not only join that conversation, but to shape it by focusing peers on America's long-term fiscal and economic challenges. Twelve student teams selected from across the country will be chosen to design and run thought-provoking and engaging campaigns about the effects of our rising debt on economic opportunity.
The national budget and debt affects us all but too often, younger Americans keep it at arms' length - it can feel too big or too intractable to really wrap your arms around fully. Up to Us gives students the chance to explore these issues on their turf, their way.
But if having a say in your country's financial security isn't enough, there's always the prize money. The winning team will receive a $10,000 cash prize, along with a trip to the 2013 Clinton Global Initiative University (CGI U) gathering to be recognized by President Clinton. Team Leaders will also be flown to the 2012 Net Impact Conference (yep, hotel and meals paid for, too!), for a tailored training session to help them shape their campaigns. Beyond that, students will develop crucial skills in leadership, marketing and strategy - all of which matter more than ever in today's job market.
Up to Us is a nonpartisan partnership between Net Impact, CGI U, and the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, all of whom share a commitment to improving our nation's long-term sustainability. Net Impact believes strongly that today's emerging leaders have a key role to play in ensuring a financially, socially, and environmentally sustainable future for all generations.
So: who will sit passively by as our politicians toss around political footballs and make decisions that affect each of us, and who will get involved and have a voice in the stability and priorities of our financial future?