Popularity is a bragging right in high school and is coveted by a lot of people; but in college, it is a totally different story. It is not about having the best fashion style or the most jersey letters.
Being well-known takes on a different form in college and comes with additions especially when one is involved in the Associated Student Organization-it’s about the responsibilities, interaction with the staff and students and amount of time and effort poured into serving the school.
The ASO is a community of student leaders who are willing to share part of their time for the betterment of their fellow students’ college experience. Senators, trustees and commissioners make sure that student services are available for everyone. They meet with various department deans to make decisions and set up resources for students.
Students may have heard of them or may know an ASO member in their class, but there is still a large student population that is not aware of the ASO.
These student leaders are needed by the college because they serve as a bridge between the students and the administrators.
They make decisions in the best interests of the students and they oppose plans that may be harmful to students.
ASO members may be seen as an exclusive group of people holding meetings and lobbying at conferences, but they are making an effort in reaching out to the students and helping them with college dilemmas.
Aside from working in the grassroots level, the ASO has been lobbying the state and the nation’s capitols to fight for various causes that concern college students. They have been to conferences in Sacramento and Washington D.C.
It is necessary to be aware of the ASO. Their members lobby for the things that help students and the plans that they pass have a great effect on college students, such as the decision for English 1A and Math 70 to be the minimum English and math requirement, respectively, for the associate of arts degree.
The ASO are students who have chosen to be part of this organization because of their shared enthusiasm and dedication in reaching out to the students that they care deeply about.
One of the many reasons students join the ASO is because it is a good experience in their chosen field, such as political science or communications.
There is also the passion in making a positive change for the benefit of the students whom they represent.
Student leader Justin Bagnall, director of academic affairs, has been part of the organization for the past two semesters.
“I enjoy it because I like the feeling that I’m making a difference. I care about EC and the students. When you make what you do very personal, it’s very rewarding to see something come out of your experience,” Bagnall said. “It’s nice to see that the things I and my colleagues are making a difference. It is a rewarding experience. I love working with people.”
Students who feel strongly about making a difference and have the sociable skills to interact well with others may consider applying for a position in the ASO.