First-year candidate Austin William K. Won So '96 says the council fails to establish a rapport with students and is therefore largely ineffective.

"I hate bureaucracy with a passion," says the Hollis Hall resident, "I want to make the council a cleaner and slimmer organization."

Although many first-year students say the elections are not well publicized, the number of first-year candidates has actually increased from last year.

According to Heinicke, the total number of candidates, including first-years, has jumped to 144 students, 34 more than last year's.

Aronberg attributes the rise to a variety of reasons. The council organized successful events and has since improved its reputation, he says.

"I'm encouraged by the first-year students' response, dedication, and willingness to do work," says Aronberg. "We're excited because the candidates all seem to be serious about the council."