In a new Q&A series, The Echo reporters ask Student Government Association candidates about their Spring 2016 campaigns. Elections will take place April 6-7 on Org Sync.
Q: Who are you and what are you running for?
My name is Hershila Lallu and I am running for Senior Class President.
Q: Why did you decide to run for SGA?
I have served on Senate for the past two years as a Sophomore Class & Junior Class Representative and I would like to continue my involvement with SGA. I had the opportunity to serve as the Diversity Chair this past year, and it has really motivated me to want to research different issues our students on our campus are facing. One of my main goals throughout my time at UCA is to bring awareness to diversity issues. Being a first generation college student, as well as a minority, has really pushed me to address some of the issues many of us are facing. I would also like to continue my work on Senate and bring attention to student concerns and make sure that administration, faculty, and staff are aware of them and also help to find a solution that will benefit the students.
Q: Why should UCA students elect you?
I have had experience serving on Senate, so I am very familiar with how SGA works and operates. I have also served on multiple committees that address many different areas of concern on campus so I know what problems our students are facing, and I can continue to help fix the problems that have not already been fixed/brainstorm different solutions. The key for any college campus to be successful is unity and mutual respect. Whether it be RSO’s with other RSO’s or religious and culturally based organizations, it is important for everyone to be able to respect each other and come together to make UCA a better learning and living environment for all students, faculty and staff. I would also like to see more events like Speaking Spirituality to be held on campus. People often avoid discussing topics simply because they are sensitive topics. If we can discuss topics similar to spirituality in a well-mannered way, we can learn so much about those who have different views than you as an individual do. Aside from diversity, I want to help more students be involved on campus. Everyone has a fit somewhere, and sometimes the hardest part is simply finding where that may be for them. In addition, I would also like to make Senate meetings more accessible to students. As of now, they are open for any student to attend, however not many would feel comfortable attending. One of my goals would be to explore the possibility of recording them and having a webcast or something of that sort where students are able to watch and ask questions from the convenience of their home.
Q: Have you been in a leadership position before?
Leadership is something that I am very passionate about. Ever since my high school career, I have always been involved in leadership positions. At my time at UCA I have served on SGA, as an Ambassador, and also in multiple positions/aspects of Greek life.
Q: What’s something unusual about you?
I wouldn’t say this is unusual but I guess a fun fact about me would be that I fluently speak four languages, and I have lived in three different countries. Not that interesting, but it is definitely something I am proud of.
photo courtesy of Hershila Lallu
