A large percentage of North American colleges and universities offer athletic programs. In past year, student athletes have received an athletic scholarships, nice housing and other amenities. As of April 2014, some college athletes are looking to unionize.

Northwestern University started things off, according to ESPN.go.com, when former quarterback, Kain Colter, allied with the United Steelworkers and oversaw the ballot to allow unionization. Colter said that unionization would allow for better protection of injured student athletes.

This change could also allow for the full cost of the student athlete to be covered. The current scholarship is about $3,000 short of actual student athlete expenses, forcing them to pick up the tab. Think Progress.com highlighted the fact that star guard for the University of Connecticut Huskies, Shabazz Napier, goes to bed hungry, because his scholarship doesn’t cover the extra costs of living such as food and basic neccesities. As student athletes, they don’t have time to join the workforce.

Unionization of college athletes has became a topic of debate. Future student athletes are also sharing their opinions.  “I think [student athletes] do a lot for the university and bring in the most revenue, the amount of money they make for the university greatly outweighs their paid tuition.” Jake Fruhmorgan, Clemson football commit said.

“Physical contact players are at the greatest risk, they are putting their life in danger. Alumni pay for most athletic scholarships, and then the school receives all the revenue.” Raeder Frantzen, Florida Atlantic football commit said.

Although most student athletes would benefit, not all agree with unionization. “You’re already getting your education payed for, so its your responsibility as a committed student athlete to make money, and provide for any other necessities that you may need.” Angel Gaskin, Maryland commit, said. Not just perspective, but also current student athletes are weighing in. “I received good housing, a laptop, paid tuition, and all I  have to do is come to practice, and perform well, thats an amazing deal.” Ruthy Simpson, USF track and field commit, said.

This fall, we should know the results of the Northwestern ballot. The National College players Association, created by Ramogi Huma, a former college athlete who filed the petition on behalf of the Northwestern athletes, said that they ultimately want better protection for the College athletes. For future and present college athletes, the results of this ballot could change college athletics forever.