Getting Started & Getting Involved
Some people jump right in to getting involved in student government. Others take “baby steps” – a wise choice before you become fully immersed. How do you start?
- Build on past experience. If you were involved in the student council, campaigned for officers of your senior class, or actually served as an officer, take a page from your high school experiences.
- Check out your school’s website. It’s likely they’ll provide info about weekly meeting times, post meeting minutes, and give contact info for senate representatives, updates about recent actions, and other news.
- Visit the student senate office. Meet those involved in daily operations of student government, ask them about how you can contribute, and get forms and applications.
- Talk to active members. Get the skinny on what it’s like to be involved, what the levels of commitment are typically expected, and the best ways to become an active member.
- Attend a student senate meeting. You’ll witness the way they conduct business and rules of order, maybe see some of the expected infighting and conflicts, and determine if getting involved is up your alley.
- Join a club. Your participation is a great stepping stone. Serve as an officer of its executive board, offer to work on the club’s constitution and bylaws, and volunteer to represent the organization as a senator.
- Join a Greek community. Attend a rush, pledge to the group, observe how meetings are run, and ease into a leadership position.
- Join your residence hall’s student council. Have a say in residence life and build your communication skills.
Make it Clique
Clicking with the gang that runs the student senate can be a little intimidating. To be honest, these groups can consist of a lot of insiders. Show up, show them your interest is sincere, and your persistence will pay off.
Four Reasons to Serve
Well, the last paragraph above says something about the importance of getting involved. But most important, it’s about empowerment. You really can make a difference at your school, and you’ll be empowered by your effectiveness to get involved beyond your college years. There are lots of reasons, depending on who you are and what you envision during your college life and beyond. Here are four very good reasons to serve in student government:
- Engage in participatory democracy – Make a difference, be empowered, have a voice, and get an insider’s view of the electoral process.
- Make policy – Have a say about policies that are most important to student life and student success.
- Earn co-curricular transcript credit – Earn formal credit for service and leadership activities.
- Grab opportunities for leadership – Joining your student governmentopens the doors to leadership actions.
The Perks – Scholarships & Résumés
If you’re still in high school and searching for a school, you might base your search on your eligibility for national and university-based leadership scholarships. See our resources below. If you’re already enrolled in college, inquire at your school about scholarships designated especially for students who demonstrate strong leadership.
In addition to opportunities to fund your education, you’re building a bridge to a career. Being able to demonstrate your leadership qualities with solid evidence on your résumé makes potential employers sit up and take notice.