In an interview with The Globe, new SLCC Student Association President Junior Martinez Magallon and Executive Vice President Chase Larson discuss their experience as student leaders, their goals and plans, and advice for all Bruins to make the academic experience a little bit sweeter.
Martinez graduated high school two years ago as a first-generation student. Being unfamiliar with the entire college process, he decided to start by getting involved. Knowing he needed help, he made the decision to get in contact with the SLCCSA leadership.
“From there, I got in contact with people who day-by-day made my college experience a whole lot better. When I had questions about college, they knew the answers,” says Martinez. “It is so much better to do college in an environment where you are surrounded by people who want you to be as successful as you want to be. So, to those of you who are thinking about getting involved I say, do it.”
Martinez was elected in March of 2018 and has been presiding for four months. He has found the experience to be rewarding.
“My experience as president has been fascinating,” says Martinez. “It is an experience I encourage everyone to have. I have currently been working with student leaders to define what the Executive Student Council goals for this year will be. We [Executive Council] have been attending conferences and retreats to help us develop our leadership skills to better serve the SLCC community.”
Student presidents aren’t generally seen out in the public eye. A lot of the work they do is behind the scenes and not much is known about what typical day in the life of a student president looks like.
“There is no typical day … every day is different; every day is new,” says Martinez. “Which is great, because it never gets boring. I love doing my job so far, and I will continue to enjoy it every day this year. I can tell you it involves a lot of brainstorming, collaboration, conversations, critical thinking, and emails … tons and tons of emails, ha ha.”
In the forefront of Martinez’s task list has been to help fellow Bruins get more involved, whether it is within clubs, organizations or other unifying opportunities to bring students together. Martinez shares his own personal counsel to all fellow bruins to help them maximize their experience here at SLCC.
“First of all, come to Bruin Bash August 30! It is a great event, invite family and friends. We love to have our students feel like home at SLCC and Bruin Bash! It is a great way to establish the culture,” says Martinez.
“We want to carry this kind of culture throughout the entire year. Also, take some time and do research about the resources available to you here at SLCC. Sign up for scholarships! SLCC provides tons of ways to help students financially. If you have any questions, make sure to email me.”
Executive Vice President Chase Larson addressed what the most important thing he would like students to know would be.
“Don’t worry if you feel like there’s no one to talk to, because there is! We actually do have power to resolve your concern,” says Larson.
Larson’s role is to fulfill any responsibilities that Martinez can’t fulfill or assigns to him. In addition, he is over the Student Center and responsible for resolving student concerns — An individual many students would likely want to ensure they gain a close relationship with.
“I really hope people come up to me during my term and get to know me. That improves life on campus,” says Larson.
With a student presidency who are eager to assist in anyway, students are encouraged to utilize their services and work closely with them.
If you have any concerns, problems, or questions about anything regarding your college experience, Martinez says to come talk to one of the Student Senators in the Student Life and Leadership office at the Taylorsville Redwood Campus or look up his contact information on the SLCC website.
