Jack Daniels, Zavon Billups, Tristan Smith and Cara Gibbons (Joe Harding not pictured)
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” “Get involved.” “Seize the opportunity.” We hear these sayings time and time again but these first year students took that advice and got involved in the Fairfield University Student Association their first semester. Now they’re ready to take their ideas and implement change for the university and for the Class of 2018. Congratulations to everyone! We can’t wait to see what you all bring to the table!
What made you want to run for FUSA Senate/President?
Zavon Billups: There are three decisive reasons why I decided to run for Senate. The first being, my peers originally brought it to my attention. They encouraged me to run, and supported me throughout the campaign. I think it’s truly something special when someone or a group of people ask you to be a leader. Another reason being, the past experience I have being in multiple leadership positions at once. Furthermore, I am an aspiring Politician; therefore being graced with the opportunity to be Freshman Class President is certainly a step in the right direction for me.
Joe Harding: What made me want to run for FUSA Senate was the compelling address delivered by this year’s keynote speaker, Dr. Williams. His message really resonated with and inspired me. He asserted that we, the Class of 2018, are the “ripples of hope, the seeds of the future, and the waters of change. And that we are not to be fearful of standing up when others sit down.” I really took these words to heart and connected them with the ideals of Jesuit faith. The main reason why I wanted to be a part of student government was to stand up for the members of my class and the rest of the student body. I wanted to be placed in a position where I can help my classmates and friends have the best four years of college possible. During my campaign, I mentioned the idea of legacy. I believe that it’s important for not just myself, but for the entire Class of 2018 to leave an imprint on the community and show that we really embraced the Jesuit value of commitment to serving others.
Cara Gibbons: I wanted to be involved in student government at Fairfield University. In high school I held various leadership positions including Vice President of Student Government. Throughout those years I gained valuable insight on how to lead a group and sustain a committee. I am looking forward to continuing my participation to make a difference in our community.
Jack Daniels: I wanted to run for Senate to get involved in the community and to help resolve some of the problems that my classmates and I face every day on campus.
Tristan Smith: I want to be able to represent the unheard opinion. Something that is very important to me is that every single person’s voice is heard. I’m hoping to be able to ensure a happy four years for every single student who passes through Fairfield University.
What is something that you wish to accomplish this term?
ZB: This term I would like to ensure there is a strong baseline for the wants and needs of Class of 2018. A thorough plan so to speak. Therefore, in the event that I am not a part of senate in the year that follows, all work in progress will be carried out.
JH: I have two tasks that I’d like to achieve first during my tenure: making the Health and Wellness Center more easily accessible to our students by placing it in the BCC, and also placing WEPA printers in the freshman dorm academic lounges so that there is another convenient option for students to print out their work. These aren’t easy tasks to accomplish, but I know FUSA can help make them happen!
CG: It will be my mission to unite our class in order for the Class of 2018 to get the most out of their Fairfield experience. I want the freshmen class to be able to get acquainted with one another. I believe that building community and school spirit is essential.
JD: This term I want to focus on updating the weight room with new equipment and increasing the space of the facility. Furthermore, I would like to see the showers in the freshman dorms renovated.
TS: I would like to get some fresh opinions from the first year students. Often times, the older students’ opinions are slightly biased because of how long they have been here. There are certain blessings taken for granted and certain nuisances ignored. First year students bring an unaffected opinion to the table that we should take into strong consideration.
One word to describe Fairfield is…
ZB: Interconnected
JH: Home.
CG: Welcoming
JD: Phenomenal
TS: Opportunity.
What’s something that you want everyone to know about you that they might not know yet?
ZB: I am very emotionally driven. I do not let my emotions control my actions, but I do let them power my initiative. A formidable tool in the “fight” to strive and prosper in the world we live in.
JH: There are a few things actually: I’m on the soccer team here, I love apple cider, I’ve always been mistaken for Tyler James Williams the kid who played Chris Rock on “Everybody Hates Chris”, and I’ve never ridden the Stag Statue here on campus.
CG: Mamma Mia is my absolute favorite movie, and on that note I have been singing Dancing Queen since the day I first heard it!
JD: My favorite activity in the summer is going to the beach and I enjoy listening to country music.
TS: I want to hear what you think about Fairfield so I can bring your voice to the table! Swing by Gonzaga 229, email me, or add me on Facebook!
What’s your favorite part about Fairfield thus far?
ZB: I would have to say the sense of community I feel, whether I’m in my dorm, classroom, or the gym. I feel comfortable here. Deciding to come to Fairfield University was a great choice.
JH: The sense of community. Even though I’ve only been here for a month, I feel like I’ve made a lot of friends from all of my classes. I can put names to faces and really connect with a lot of people. Everyone here is so nice and welcoming that it made my transition from high school to college much easier.
CG: The people are my favorite part. My transition into college has been very easy due to all the amazing students and staff I have met. I am looking forward to what the next four years have in store at my new home!
JD: My favorite part about Fairfield is the new friends that I have made over the last three weeks.
TS: Everyone is so friendly and inviting. It’s a wonderful community to be a part of.