As Congress was unable to reach an agreement on funding the federal government and Obamacare, the government has shutdown for the first time in 18 years putting thousands out of work and on unpaid leave.

Laura Knotts, director of Student Affairs and SGA advisor, found herself without help when setting up for the 5k Zombie Outrun.

“The local National Guard had agreed to help us weed out pits and set up heavy things, but because of the government shutdown they are unable to do any community projects. Now we have no one to help so we have to get senators out there,” Knotts said.

Keana Howell, a sophomore pre-nursing major, was affected by the shutdown in a personal way. With both of her parents working for the federal government, their financial status depends on a quick resolution to this issue.

“My father is a firefighter, so he’s still working but he isn’t being paid. My mom is at home,” Howell said. “As a middle class family, we live from paycheck to paycheck and this shutdown is doing so much more harm than good.”

According to Howell the shutdown should have never been allowed to happen and hopes that the congressmen responsible realize their mistake.

“They are there to represent us, and this affects us. The normal people. Most of the congressmen are still getting paid. We vote for them, and we should be their first concern.” Howell said.

Howell hopes that both sides can come to an agreement and will get back to business before this has a chance to affect a wider population.

The government shutdown has caused national parks to close, a cease in many NASA operations, cuts to social security and many other services.