Pictured above: USF St. Petersburg governors Veronica Jimenez (left) and Eran Fruehauf share why students should consider campaigning for Student Government to ensure campus representation under consolidation.
Courtesy of Veronica Jimenez and Eran Fruehauf
By Veronica Jimenez and Eran Fruehauf
From Veronica Jimenez, USF St. Petersburg campus governor:
When I was a freshman at USF St. Petersburg, I was longing for a way to get involved on campus.
In high school, I had thought about joining Student Government (SG), but to me, it felt like a popularity contest. In college, being in an organization like SG made me feel like I could have a real impact on the student body. The political science major in me was ready to begin campaigning.
People often ask me why I joined SG, and my answer is because I want to do everything in my power to benefit the student body.
I didn’t join SG as a resume filler, I joined because I truly think that it is the best way to get involved and connect with other students. We give students a chance to voice their wants and needs, and we work on initiatives throughout the school year to make sure that their experience at USF is the best it can be.
I believe students should consider running for SG because it gives a different perspective on being a student here; you get down to the nitty-gritty on how to accommodate everyone, even if it means going through budgets or writing bills and resolutions.
Students should join if they want to make a difference on campus and accomplish initiatives that can have a long-term impact.
As a campus senator in my freshman year, I wanted to make a difference, and to be given the opportunity to serve as the Second Consolidated term Governor has been one of my greatest accomplishments.
In this position, there is a greater ability to carry out projects and to be heard by my peers, colleagues and community leaders. I want to make sure I can assist everyone and carry out projects that I know will make a great difference to our campus.
If anyone would like to join, you can pick up election packets to run for Senate and Campus Council in the Student Government office or online via the SG website.
While consolidation might be something we weren’t prepared for, we need to come together as Bulls and make the best out of our school year. There is no need to compete over which campus is the best – although our campus is beautiful on the water.
However, while being under OneUSF is important, I think it’s even more important to carry on the uniqueness and individuality of our campus. It’s so special taking iconic pictures by the fountain, sitting by the bay after a long day or even going to The Grind.
While we’re all Bulls, in my heart I know I’ll always be a Bull by the Bay.
From Eran Fruehauf, USF St. Petersburg lieutenant governor:
Under consolidation, Student Government has become more important than ever.
Now that the St. Petersburg campus is represented across the entire USF system, we have the ability to collaborate with all three campuses on projects and initiatives. Consolidation has also prompted St. Petersburg leaders to remain vigilant in preserving our campus autonomy and culture, as well as securing equitable outcomes for our students.
In the past, however, our campus has struggled to find student leaders to assume this responsibility. Without representatives to fill these seats, our campus does not get represented.
If there is injustice or ignorance from the USF system, at that moment, we can blame no one except ourselves.
It is my only hope that more students will seek out this opportunity, not only because it is worthwhile for their personal and professional lives, but also because it is a responsibility we owe to each other to ensure our voices are heard.
