We are now about halfway through the spring semester at CSU Stanislaus, which means voting season for Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) is almost upon us. With 14 different seats available, ASI is encouraging eligible students to apply to run and let their voices be heard.
According to ASI, being a part of student government doesn’t just give you a voice, it allows students to grow and develop skills needed for the world outside of school.
ASI President Miranda Gonzales shared some of the many benefits of being part of ASI.
“You can network with alumni and participate in various student government events,” Gonzales stated. “The professional benefits include learning skills like public speaking, problem-solving, working as a team and strengthening your leadership skills.”
Applying for ASI can be nerve-racking, but Gonzales shared some advice for those nervous about applying.
“Do it! Running for ASI Elections pushed me outside of my comfort zone. It’s given me the privilege of working with amazing staff and students, and through this, I’ve developed a strong passion for advocating on behalf of students and for higher education,” Gonzales said.
Eligibility to run includes a few requirements: any Stan State student in good standing, earning at least a 2.5 GPA and enrolled in six or more units is eligible. Graduate students must also take six units per term but need to maintain a GPA of 3.0, instead of 2.5.
First-time candidates are only eligible for one of 11 director positions on the ASI board, as executive positions require candidates to “have served at least one semester with Associated Students, Inc.,” according to ASI election code.
ASI election applications officially opened on Jan. 22 and are due by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19. The full list of requirements can be found on the ASI website in the election code.
Online candidate applications are available on the ASI elections page of the Stan State website. Applications are open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements.
Another important date to mark on your calendar for those who plan to run is Friday, March 21. A mandatory meeting for all candidates will take place in the Student Center’s Valley Multi-Use Room (SC 202A) from noon to 1 p.m.
If you’re not interested in joining ASI but want to get involved in the process, you can vote this year. In-person polls will be located in the Library Event Hall Room 102, open on Wednesday, April 16 and Thursday, April 17 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Be sure to bring your Warrior ID to verify your student status.
Those who can’t make it in person can vote online. The online polls open on Wednesday, April 16, at 8 a.m. and close Thursday, April 17, at 6 p.m. Be sure to check your school email around that time for your voting link.
Gonzales encourages all voters to read through the candidates’ goals and what they hope to achieve during their term.
“Voting is important because the individuals elected will represent them on various university committees and the ASI Board of Directors,” Gonzales stated.
First-year students interested in applying for a seat on the ASI board in the future or seeking leadership roles have an opportunity for hands-on experience through the First Year Leadership Experience (FLEx) Program offered by ASI.
“I started with the First Year Leadership Experience (FLEx) program, where I learned about leadership and ways to get involved on campus. From there, I ran for the ASI Board of Directors, serving as the Director of Sustainability, Vice President of Finance and now as President,” Gonzales said.
Although election day is still a month away, it’s important to use this time to prepare a campaign, learn about student government or support your favorite candidate. ASI elections determine who leads and represents Stan State students, so make your voice heard!
