5 Reasons College Women Should Join Student Government

Upon arriving at college, I felt a bit overwhelmed with my school work. I wasn’t quite sure about what organizations I would eventually like to get involved with. However, it didn’t take long until I was encouraged to join student government by one of my now fellow senators. This senator was extremely passionate about student government. Through their passion, I decided to run for Senate in student government. I have enjoyed my time serving my constituents ever since. 

Networking and professional development

Because student government is a professional organization, there are endless opportunities for networking and professional development. My fellow senators excel in their respected majors and other extracurricular endeavors. If I am ever interested in what a club does on campus or getting involved, it is likely that one of my colleagues is already directly involved in said club. In addition, you will likely develop a close relationship with other branches and committees that make up student government. It is helpful to understand how each branch functions if you might ever be interested in running or applying for a position in a different branch. 

Debate skills

Because legislation is constantly being introduced, you have plenty of opportunities to refine your debate skills. If you are unsure that a piece of legislation will benefit your campus, you have the opportunity to explain why you believe that to be the case. I have never been the first person to speak up in a group setting. Student government has given me the confidence to voice my opinion about issues facing my campus while I simultaneously refine my debate skills. Additionally, student government operates according to parliamentary procedure and Robert’s Rules. This is exceedingly advantageous if you’re interested in being involved in politics at any level later in life. 

Enact change through legislation on campus

Student government essentially gives members, and their constituents, the ability to enact nearly any change that you would like to see on campus. Through writing legislation, it is possible to change the way in which your student government operates, support or oppose decisions made by leadership on campus, distribute funding to clubs on campus, and advocate for fellow students. 

A new friend group with similar interests

Many of my colleagues in student government are also very involved in politics. This creates the opportunity to talk local, state, and national politics outside of our time in senate. In addition, senators are elected by district which is assigned according to major. Many of my fellow senators are in my classes. This has provided me with friends to discuss class material with, study with, and even sit with in class. 

Be informed and inform other students

As a senator or member of student government, you will be directly involved with happenings on your campus. At FFL, we champion being informed about all issues. Direct involvement essentially compels one to be well informed about issues facing your campus. Furthermore, you can inform other students about student government and what you’re looking to accomplish in the coming semester or year. By being active, present, and informed, you have the ability to lead your campus in a direction that you believe to be beneficial. 

For those of us interested in politics, student government gives you a great start to learning about procedures used in Congress and other legislative bodies. It is fulfilling to institute change on your campus. You’re making your campus better for future generations all the while networking, making new friends, and improving your interpersonal skills. Join student government!