We know some are going to read this and think, “These two people need to move on.” And there’s some truth to that. For those who know us, we often like to poke fun at ourselves. So, if you can’t find the humor in some of this, stop reading now.

Student Government is obviously a different organization from what it was three years ago, and we think you need to “check yo-self before you wreck yo-self!”

And some may think that has already happened.

At any rate, you know the saying “Nice guys finish last”? We think that’s completely false.

And how do we know this? Because we ran a campaign in 2009 that focused on promoting our initiatives and getting our people elected without worrying about every little thing the other tickets were doing.

We won.

Yeah, we know what’s up. Sometimes we read The Daily Reveille, and happenings inevitably take over social media. It’s concerning as alumni of the University and Student Government to see students abuse the power they have as elected officials.

Whether it’s hiding your voting records from Senate meetings or disregarding the student voice in any form, there’s no place for that type of behavior in any publicly funded organization. To be frank: In the real world, that doesn’t fly.

So, LSU student body, choose wisely today.

As a reminder, people outside of this university are watching (and it’s not just past members of Student Government). When you do these sorts of things, your actions affect your own reputation, the reputation of the entire student body and the University as a whole.

This is the chance for the newly elected individuals and all current members of SG to make things right.

University administrators, you’re also part of this conversation.

To the new adviser: We understand the job can be tough. Here are a few thoughts:

First thing, as we’re sure you already figured out, it’s important to get to know every member of the organization — not just the ones in the highest leadership positions.

Most often, the direct representation of the student body comes from the students who are the least involved.

Hey, we were students once. We got amped up about our ideas and mini-missions, but sometimes you gotta rein us in.

Secondly, know the governing documents inside and out, because at some point, some punk is going to try to find a loophole and use it to his or her advantage. In some cases, it may not be ethical, though the documents allow it. Hear them out, but ask them to truly consider the consequences of their behavior before they jump to action. “Is it really worth it? The Reveille is always watching!”

Oh, yeah. If for any reason, there’s a discrepancy over the definition of fair market value, go down to the College of Business and ask someone — anyone. (Aren’t they ranked as one of the top academic programs in the country? Yeah, they are.)

To the system president designate: We’ve heard great things about you and look forward to meeting you one day. But really, get to know the students and work with them — regularly. This is the fastest way to learn about and understand the pulse of this campus.

Genius? We know.

This organization has a strong place at LSU with a great deal of responsibility; it would be to your advantage to collaborate often.

In closing, Student Government is a great “résumé builder,” but we use that term lightly. The title only lasts for one year, and you can’t take it with you — ask us or any other alum.

The only things you have to stand on after your term in office are your reputation and your integrity.

Consider that.

Stuart LeJeune Watkins and Martina Scheuermann served as Student Government president and vice president from 2009-10.