Like many students around campus, we hear a lot about Student Government and voting for class positions. Although, have you ever wondered what they actually do? I know I have been confused about if SGA has any holdings or responsibilities on campus. I never thought elections or parties were important because I never imagined they had as much influence as they do. I sat down with the Chief of Staff, Sofia Slimak, to talk about what SGA is and why people should care about it.
Her Campus (HC): What is the Student Government Association? What do you guys do as a group?
Sofia Slimak (SS): The mission of the Student Government Association (SGA) is to provide FSU students with representation, services and advocacy within the university structure. The SGA provides quality leadership for, and accountability to, its constituency by recognizing that strength arises from diversity, engagements and dialogue. Also, Student Government Association is the representation of students to the campus, administrators and the local community. It is broken into three branches, mirroring the state and federal government: an Executive, Judicial and Legislative branch. The Executive Branch is the President, Vice President, Treasurer and the executive cabinet. They tie closely to the administration and local community. The Judicial Branch is composed of law students comprising an elections commission and supreme court. The Legislative Branch is composed of the Student Senate, having 80 student Senators representing their colleges. We advocate on behalf of the students.
HC: What has been the most influential thing that SGA has done for Florida State University?
SS: SGA operates approximately a 13.8 million-dollar budget. The money goes directly to the students through pathways such as agencies, the union, student recreation and small groups. SGA represents the students to the administration and local community, advocating on behalf of the students.
HC: Why should the student population care about what SGA is and what they do for the university?
SS: SGA is a powerful tool for students, a source of information, funds and support. We can help fund events, food, travel and merchandise for organizations and students. We are able to advocate for the interest of students when writing legislation or speaking with administration.
HC: What inspired you to join SGA? How long have you been involved in this organization?
SS: The summer after my freshman year, I lived with a Student Senator who encouraged me to get involved. A mentor of mine encouraged me to get involved and dive into the experience. I have been involved since this summer, going on my third year.
HC: As Chief of Staff, what are some of your responsibilities within the organization?
SS: Student Body Chief of Staff shall report directly to the Student Body President. This individual will manage and lead the Executive Office of the President’s staff, represent the Student Body President to external university and governmental entities, represent the Student Body President to internal Student Government entities and coordinate and work on behalf of the Student Body President on executive projects. Furthermore, the Chief of Staff will be tasked with interviewing and recommending applicants for the appointed positions with the Student Government Association. They may assign an individual to assist in the approval process, under the discretion of the Student Body President.
HC: Have you met any famous politicians or gone to any big political events?
SS: I have been able to meet numerous legislators from the Florida Capital on various occasions. The event Rally in Tally is a day where all 12 public institutions in the state of Florida and lobby on behalf of the students to legislators. In this event, I was able to meet various politicians at this event.
HC: Why do you feel students should vote in student elections? Why is Student Government Association important to the campus?
SS: Voting is the way in which candidates are selected into office. It is important to elect your candidate as they will be the one representing and speaking on your behalf.
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