The time for election season kicks in as new candidates for College of the Canyon’s
Associated Student Government held their campaign week from April 29th to May 3rd.
A full week for candidates to display their dedication face-to-face and encourage students on campus to vote in between classes for the 2024-2025 ASG Senate.
With seven positions to be filled for the next school year, the impending election results are set to be revealed on Monday. Although amidst the stress and anticipation students must feel, how much do students know about ASG and what they do for our school?
ASG is a student-run organization that represents and serves the needs of all students. They collaborate with other clubs, faculty members, the state legislature, the Board of Trustees, and the SCV community.
“If there are issues happening on campus, your ASG are your student representatives'” said Kelly Dapp, Director of Campus Life & Student Engagement who works closely with ASG members, providing necessary guidance.
“They bring that student perspective to the administration…anytime there is some policy or issue that directly impacts students, ASG is heavily involved with giving their input,” said Dapp.
Recent projects crafted by the students of ASG have included BaNC Funding, the establishment of the Annual Multicultural Day, the expansion of the ASG Computer Lab, additional baby changing stations, scholarship opportunities, and increased water bottle refill stations.
But like many students, these ASG members found their way to the organization through personal interests and connections that drove them to take on these pivotal roles.
“I do come from a low-income background, so I do feel the need to advocate for better financial resources and people in my demographic,” said Harrison Kim, the newly elected President of the ASG.
“Sometimes middle-class just isn’t good enough anymore, especially with the rising cost of four-year universities,” said Kim.
“I do want to have equitable access to financial resources,” said Kim.
These candidates and ASG members are not only interested in giving a voice to all students through strong advocacy, but they also want to find solutions to creating a campus that people want to return to.
Newly elected Student Trustee Sanjan Sudhir looks to use her position to address challenges that a community college, such as ours, endures.
“Getting involved is hard because COC is a commuter campus, so there are a lot of people coming in and out, so there aren’t a lot of reasons for people to stay,” said Student Trustee Sanjana Sudhir.
“Having more accessibility in our resources, starting with the BaNC, the Wellness Center, Campus Life, and all these other benefits that ASG offers, but students don’t even know about,” said Sudhir.
Community college can be tough to navigate as most students are juggling their courseload, a job, and other personal obligations that occupy them in their day-to-day lives.
The commuter culture of COC leaves most people with a sense of unfulfillment or can even be lonely at times.
Having a sense of community can do wonders for the life of a student, and leaning on
those who understand the challenges can provide much-needed support.
Finding connections within the college community can alleviate the isolation that often accompanies the commuter lifestyle.
ASG members work hard to bring that camaraderie through campus events, social gatherings, and encouraging student involvement.
As finals loom and the academic year draws close, don’t overlook ASG’s role in shaping our college experience.
