As a freshman who was brand new to the George Mason University setting, Student Government was the last thing I expected to be a part of. Being a senior in high school just the year before, my conception was that high school student council was strenuous and prestigious, only meant for the smartest and most creative students. When I entered college, I assumed that GMU’s Student Government was that same conception multiplied by ten.
I feel that one of the hardest hurdles to jump for joining any group is getting past the application process. Having to stand before the Student Senate and the top brass of the executive cabinet was intimidating, and that’s to be expected. However, people seem to focus more on that than what comes after you get through it. Self-confidence is something that most people struggle with at some point in their life, and these types of scenarios are exactly what can help you emerge from the cocoon that you may have created for yourself.
After getting through that stressful application process, you are introduced to an extremely friendly group of people that you will quickly grow very fond of. In the short time I have spent in Student Government, I have had more people greet me and introduce themselves while also being interested in who I am, than I have ever gotten out of an organization.
While the work in Student Government can be drawn out and full of meetings, I still recommend it for people who may be new to GMU and are looking for something to fill your schedule. Student Government offers new ways for you to embrace your inner leader. It allows you to figure out new ways to initiate your ideas and improve the community of George Mason University. Whether you are interested in supporting the President and Vice President in the Executive Cabinet, creating and debating legislation in the Senate, or solving various issues in the Election Dispute Committee- There will be a place for you. Once you get past delusional mindset of unfamiliar territory, your leadership-led life as an SG member will open and you will have freedom to make our fine university a better place for all.
Written by Bryan Meidt, Undersecretary of Academic and Professional Development