Every campus has movers and shakers – the students that are out to make a change not only on college grounds, but also in the community. One of Cal State L.A.’s greatest achievers, Sasha Perez, can easily be identified by many as one that gives her all in everything that she does. Double majoring in Political Science and Social and Behavioral Economics, Sasha has spent the last school year in influential positions. Not only is she involved on campus as ASI’s Vice President of External Affairs and Advancement and more, but she also participates in the LA-32 Neighborhood Council and has been working on a documentary. Sasha took the time to speak to Her Campus about how her history at Cal State L.A., the work her positions involve, and what new adventures lie in her path.
What made you choose to attend Cal State L.A.?
It was close to home and affordable. I was considering going to community college before I chose to attend Cal State L.A. because I worried about the cost of school. I was having trouble finding my first job until I was hired by Sbarro on campus. Shortly after the County of Los Angeles hired me, and I haven’t stopped working since then.
How did you become interested in your major?
That’s a hard question! It’s definitely been a multitude of things.
In high school I was in National Forensics League (Debate Club) and I was also co-Editor In Chief of our campus newspaper. Both of those experiences taught me a lot about doing investigative research, fact checking and identifying bias. While I was in National Forensics League, I competed in Congressional debate, which involved analyzing legislation and taking a position of support or opposition.
My grandfather also played a huge role. He was the West Region Representative for the Sheet Metal Workers Union back in the 60’s. During the labor movement he often coordinated with other activist such as Cesar Chavez. They were very committed activist – they’d lobby, protest and go on strikes together. My grandfather passed away when I was only 5 but he still managed to inspire my love for politics.
What are you involved with on campus?
Haha, a little bit of everything! I’m the Associated Students Inc. (ASI) Vice President for External Affairs and Advancement, the Treasurer/Executive Producer for Golden Eagle TV and an intern for the Office of Communications and Public Affairs. I try to contribute where I can.
What do you do as Vice President for External Affairs and Advancement?
My position in ASI is actually fairly recent. A year ago, this position was the Legislative Affairs Representative at Large, but we decided to change up the structure due to the importance and workload involved with the position.
My job is to keep up with what’s occurring on our campus, the 22 other CSU campuses and what’s going on with State/Local government. I’m supposed to keep track of anything external that impacts or may impact the students at Cal State LA. As you can probably imagine, that’s a lot to keep up with. I manage the 2 Representatives-at-Large: Community Affairs and Campus Affairs, who assist me by engaging in activities like surveying and community outreach. My role in ASI is a little bit different from the other VP’s because I serve on our ASI Board and the California Statewide Student Association (CSSA) Board. Every month I attend a CSSA meeting to represent Cal State LA. I’ve been active with that Board for about 3 years now, and during that time I’ve traveled to almost every CSU in the state except for Fresno and San Jose. It can be fun but it’s a ton of work, especially as a student. The Advancement side of my position is supposed to assist with furthering the progress of ASI, whether that be applying for grants, creating our 5 year Strategic Plan or communicating with students to discover and address current issues.
My cabinet will be undergoing more changes in the coming year, so I hope students consider getting involved! I’m mirroring UC Berkeley’s External Affairs structure, which works super effectively for grass roots organizing.
Have you always been interested in being involved with ASI?
No. The first time I spoke to someone about ASI was my freshman year, and they actually told me they didn’t like it, and advised me not to join. I’m glad I didn’t listen to them.
I didn’t really know what I wanted to get involved with as a freshman. One of my classmates, Johann, had asked me to be one of his first lobby corps members. He thought my research experience could really contribute to the ASI Legislative Affairs Committee. I don’t think I spoke more than once at those meetings! I was nervous, but I enjoyed listening to all the member’s debate.
What is your favorite part about interning for the Office of Communications and Public Affairs?
I love the people! Both my co-workers and my bosses are so incredibly talented. I learn a lot from watching them. I also enjoy being able to contribute to the Cal State L.A. TODAY magazine from time to time. It’s really cool seeing my name in there because it’s such a beautiful publication.
Political science and television is a mix that is not often seen on campus! How does your involvement with Golden Eagle Television tie into your future goals?
Actually, film came before politics for me. Film has always been my hobby. I was acting for about 3 years before I completely called it quits. During that time I was also writing, performing stand-up comedy and modeling. The industry in L.A. is very competitive and time consuming, so I began to focus my energy elsewhere.
I did a campaign video for my bid for CSSA VP of University Affairs, and everyone fell in love with it. I was in Puerto Rico when the votes took place and I only lost by one vote. After that I decided to explore mixing videos with advocacy. Ana Corella, the founder of Golden Eagle TV, asked me to come onto the Golden Eagle TV team after we worked together on a couple of projects. I’ve learned so much from her! She’s the film guru and I’m the political junkie. We have continued to collaborate and were currently partnering for a documentary.
How has being engaged on campus helped with your off campus involvement with the LA-32 Neighborhood Council?
It’s helped tremendously. Being involved with ASI and the U-SU Board has taught me Roberts Rules of Order and how to properly run a meeting, so I felt prepared after being elected to the Neighborhood Council. Whenever the residents have questions regarding the University I can usually answer them or direct them to the right person.
I’ve been promoting Cal State L.A. to the community so they feel more knowledgeable about the university’s efforts. So far, I think the response has been decent but I haven’t quite met my personal goals. I finish my term on the Neighborhood Council in April 2016 so my works not quite done yet!
Did you have a specific goal that you wanted to achieve when you started at Cal State L.A.? If so, did you do it?
No I did not! But I think I’ve contributed quite a bit – and I’m not even finished yet. I guess my main goal has been to leave this place better than I found it.
Graduation is right around the corner! What’s the last thing you want to do before you leave Cal State L.A.?
I have a quarter more to go till I’m done… and I plan on utilizing that time well! I don’t want to name anything specific quite yet because I’m still on the fence about what that’ll be. Who knows? In the last month I was able to book President Pro Tempore Kevin de Leon on our campus’ radio station to discuss the importance of funding higher education. I never would’ve predicted that opportunity coming up! Good things often occur suddenly, so I’m ready for anything.
What’s the first thing that you are going to do after you graduate?
Sleep? Haha! I’m actually missing a meeting for graduation, go figure. I’ll probably get the updates on that meeting, finish my transition folder for ASI and then leave to New York. The next two years I’m focusing on travelling and meeting people who will help me expand my perspectives.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Playing with my puppy, Molly, hanging out with my friends, travelling and going to Transformational Festivals!
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Working hard doing something I love! Who knows? I have a couple of options – all of which I’m excited about. I feel incredibly blessed.
The next ten years are going to be an adventure! I can’t wait. As long as I feel like I’m making a genuine contribution back to my community, I’ll be content.
If you could give Freshman You any advice, what would it be?
Explore different majors and different departments. Enjoy taking pre-requisites, enjoy free time and explore as much as possible, because you’re going to need to hit the ground running soon!