Serving in Pierce College Student Government a great learning experience

Campaigning is never easy.

A young person, fresh out of high school or someone who has not been in school for a few years, can find it intimidating to get up in front of people to talk about how much he or she is qualified to serve. It require persuading the crowd that he or she is better qualified than the other candidate who is also asking for the same thing.

Cameron Cox, the Director of Student Programs, said this lent itself as to why the process was changed some years ago. “Not enough students were expressing interest in running for the offices, so either there was no debate between candidates or one would be running unopposed.”

Application packets are extensive. Along with the usual “tell us about yourself” form, signatures from 25 peers are also required.

Terrell Engmann, one of the Legislative Senators, remembered what it was like when he first applied last year. He said after getting permission from his psychology professor, he got up in front of his class and talked about his interest in participating in student government. He finished his speech by asking for signatures of support from those in the class.

“The hardest part,” he said, “was when I went to the STEM Center. There, the students were not satisfied with general statements as to why I wanted to serve. They would ask pointed questions and I had to be able to answer them clearly.”

As Terrell has learned, serving as Legislative Senator can be a great experience. Because he had to be able to connect with the students, he said had to refine his values and focus on character development.

Additionally, he was able to build problem-solving skills. He said in meetings between the clubs senator and the various campus club representatives, he saw opportunities where the clubs could be regulated better.

He and others like him fulfill the mission of the Associated Students of Pierce College as stated in the Constitution and Bylaws of the Student Government. “We, as students…will take an active role in identifying and addressing the needs of the student body; we will work to benefit the college and community through leadership, representation, and service.”

Applications for Student Government and Student Activities are available at the Student Life office, room C422. Serving in any of the positions can give students an opportunity to practice some of the skills they will use in their careers.