Every student knows the existence of a Student Government Association (SGAP) at FSU, but do they really know what is it for? Sincerely, not even we were even clear about the answer to these questions so we decided to interview Nemo, the current President of the Student Government. Our first inquietude was to know what his reasons were for joining the student government as president. He said that, besides continuing with the entertaining activities, he really wanted to make a difference for students by leading them towards a solution to their university-related problems. But, what can they do for us, the students? The Student Government works as a contact in going form the problem to the solution. “Students come to us with their problems, we hear them, and try to solve it; basically SGAP works as a middle man between the students and the administration.” He also claimed that students don’t talk much about their issues as much as he would like. From our part, we would like to remind you that each member has different office hours (posted in the lounge) so you can visit them and talk to them about any inquietude you have.

     During his term as president, SGAP has managed to arrange meetings with Dr. Langoni for matters such as the future of FSU Panama, meeting that included the presence of Jim Pitts. They established an official administration with official responsibilities with the objective of solving the problem with advising, published in a previous article. Another subject treated in one of the meetings with Dr. Langoni was the dismissal of Professor Sirias, which didn’t have a very satisfactory ending since students (represented by SGAP) weren’t taken in much consideration because their questions weren’t really answered. They have also continued to do the usual fun and educative activities, such as the Talent Show.

     Usually, the term for elections in the Student Government Association is one year, but they had to do a little change in the constitution since there are only five members, instead of ten. They have decided to reorganize the whole Student Government Association (including the President) with an election that will take place on September 29th and 30th. SGAP is asking for as many people as possible to participate in these elections. It doesn’t matter if you are freshmen (70% of students are); there is room for you too! The requirements are the following:

     - Stay at FSU for two consecutive semesters
     - Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5
     - Be able to meet during lunch hours
     - Be willing to help with several areas of student life

     Being part of the Student Government Association has innumerable benefits, besides making a difference; your curriculum vitae gets boosted, which opens you many doors in your future. The phrase “member of the Student Government Association” is taken in great consideration by Universities and jobs because it means that you have experience. Since the position is taken voluntarily, you have a stronger feeling of having to fulfill all of your tasks, and this teaches you to be responsible. With time, you’ll learn how to work as a team, and you can have the satisfactory experience of working for others. Plus, you get to make connections with teachers and the administration.

     If you are thinking on joining SGAP, check out the different positions in the executive board and see which one interests you.

     President: The President is the official spokesperson of the student body. He or she chairs all student government meetings, but has no voting power unless there is a tie. The president ensures that the goals of the student government are met and serves as a supporter to each member when needed.

     Vice President: Assumes all roles of the president anytime he is unable to be present. She or he shares the responsibilities of ensuring that all activities and goals of the government are met. The vice president also makes sure that “thank you” notes and other reward and acknowledgements are made. He/she has a vote during motions and amendments.

     Secretary: Records all minutes and discussion topics of each meeting as well as prepares the agenda and minutes of previous meetings. Additionally, he/she posts minutes on the announcement board or the web page. The secretary advertises meetings and any events the government is involved in, and is responsible for contacting all Student Government members. She or he also keeps record of all communication between the Student Council and the Administration, Faculty, or Students.

     Treasurer: handles all SGAP’s money and provides documentation of purchases and any other monetary actions. He/she serves as the representative when dealing with any financial situation between the Student Government and the administration.

     Senators: SGAP has six senators, each one in charge of different areas such as athletics, arts and culture, computers, academics, facilities, and the Study-Abroad program. They must attend meetings related to their area of emphasis and report the results to the student government, by submitting a written summary to keep a record and facilitate follow up. They are expected to help out in case of a complex and lengthy even where extra manpower is needed.

     Remember, SGAP needs you!


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