I am applying for the position of Associated Student Body President because I am passionate about being a leader who serves the needs of his community. The thoughts, concerns, and passions of my fellow students are what drives Highline to become the unique and world class institution that it is. Those things can not be taken lightly and must be accurately conveyed to the Staff, Faculty, and Administrative members of Highline. I know that I possess the ability to do those things well, and this is why I want to be the next ASB President of Highline Community College.

The obvious answer to this question is because I am a student at Highline. I too have searched frantically for parking, felt overcharged for food, paid way too much for my used textbooks, and have worked two part-time jobs while taking fifteen credits. Because I am a student, I can understand and appreciate all student’s points of view. Yet, the best reason for me being a great representative of the students is the simple fact that I care; I care about their success, about the richness of their education and about their lives. This was a major reason why I decided to spear-head the Student Book Exchange in March and April. If we want to better ourselves through education these books are a requirement. I recognized that we are being taken advantage of and wanted to do everything in my power to provide students with a cheaper option.

From the time I previously attended Highline, 2002-2004, to now, it has undergone some amazing changes. I love what has been happening in order to provide students with opportunities to get involved and be a part of the community on campus. However, I can still sit in my classes and pick out students who are not involved and could benefit greatly from taking on even small roles. My vision is to continue the extension of our community by investigating the reasons students do not get involved and then finding ways to reach those students. I believe in student involvement as a way to embolden the educational experience and keep Highline the school that we, the students, want it to be.

My past work experience and on-campus involvement will help me perform in this position. From working in the construction industry, restaurant industry, and volunteering as a firefighter I have gained invaluable experience in working with a broad diversity of people and situations. At Highline I have been involved in the Honors Scholar Program, Conversation Pal, the Services and Activities Fee Budget Committee, and a Public Relations Officer in Phi Theta Kappa. Being involved with many of the school’s niches has allowed me to interact with many different students and viewpoints, and I am well equipped to serve the student’s needs.