Make SGA Yours

Sun, 12 Sep 2010 14:51:00 -0400
opportunities

UMBC's SGA is not an ordinary student government. For one thing, it's much larger and more inclusive than most, so students with a variety of interests and passions find a home. Last year more than 140 students served in SGA positions; this year, the total will undoubtedly be even higher.

But what makes UMBC's SGA truly unusual is its sophistication and impact. The director of the Center for Democracy and Citizenship in Minnesota was so impressed with SGA's initiatives aimed at including and empowering other students that he predicted, "Baltimore may well become known not only for the waterfront but also for its university as a center in the democracy movement." This is an organization in which you can learn, form lasting friendships, and make a real difference.

There are three kinds of opportunities available in SGA right now:

SGA's Executive Branch is looking for staff members work on a variety of initiatives to support students and enhance campus life. Each staff member works within an Executive Branch department, under the guidance of the President, Vice Presidents and Department Directors and Assistant Directors. Staff positions are available in the departments of Academic Affairs; Community and Governmental Affairs; Environmental Affairs; Finances and Operations; Health and Wellness; Public Relations; Service, Volunteerism and Awareness; Student Advocates; and Student Organization Support. No experience is necessary; training is provided. If this is NOT your first year at UMBC and you want to apply for an Executive Branch position, follow this link: Executive Branch Application (first year students, please read on).

If this is your first year at UMBC, consider applying to be a First Year Ambassador. First Year Ambassadors serve in the SGA Senate, Finance Board and Executive Branch. They have all of the responsibilities of other SGA officers (except that First Year Ambassadors serving in the Senate and Finance Board do not vote), but receive special training and opportunities to learn about SGA's and UMBC's structure and operations. In addition, First Year Ambassadors have the opportunity to represent SGA on the First Year Council. To apply to join SGA as a First Year Ambassador, follow this link: First Year Ambassador Application

Finally, one of the students elected to the SGA Senate last spring has resigned, and SGA will appoint a new Senator to fill the vacancy. The 11 SGA Senators meet weekly (Mondays at 5:30 p.m.), connect with other students to learn about their experiences and frustrations, represent students in formal and informal policy discussions with other campus leaders, and develop initiatives in partnership with the Executive Branch. To apply for the vacant SGA Senate position (application is due 9/17), follow this link: SGA Senator Application

If you have questions about SGA, please contact me at dhoffman@umbc.edu. I'm looking forward to helping you get involved.