One year ago, I filled out a piece of paper that significantly enhanced my learning experience at De Anza college. Last April, excited and a little nervous, I submitted my application to run for the De Anza Associated Student Body senate. It opened an expanse of growing experiences I never could have reached in the classroom.

It began a whirlwind year ofmeeting new people and learning many useful life skills including speaking in public, working towards goals, interacting in a team, and planning events.

Through DASB I was able to interact closely with the De Anza administration, echo student concerns to them and witness my involvement affect the campus.

The year was packed with excitement and challenges, from working to recruit models for a fund-raising fashion show to researching important details of the nearly $1 million student budget.

Through DASB, I was able to obtain leadership experience at a level that is usually unavailable to those with my level of education. My involvement also provided me with soaring volunteer hours and experiences which I was able to include in my college applications for transfer. However, my term, as well as many others, is ending soon, and we will need someone to pick up the torch.

If you have at least a 2.0 GPA and are enrolled in at least 7.5 units, I would strongly recommend applying to be a DASB senator or executive.

There are currently 21 open senator positions, seven open vice president positions, as well as President and Executive Vice President. No previous experience is required.

The deadline to apply is Friday, April 28 at 4:00 p.m. Applications are available in the Student Activities office and online at http://www.deanza.edu/dasb.

A prospective candidate question and answer session and meet your senate meeting will be held at 3:30 on April 26 in the Student Council Chambers. Students will campaign around the campus to solicit students’ votes during a campus-wide election.

Any other current DASB officer would love to answer your questions, so stop by and visit our the DASB office in the lower level of the Hinson Campus Center.

Joining student government may be the one of the best experiences you have at De Anza.