[Editor's note: This is the third in a series of four articles introducing the Undergraduate Student Government presidential candidates.]
Name: Ross Meyer
Year and major: Economics junior
Running mate: Liz Simonhoff
Web site: www.rossandliz.com
What do you think the job you are running for entails? I believe this job requires more than is publicized. From the majority of students, one might believe it is an easy job that does not require much time. However, this is a grueling job that requires persistence, stamina and the ability to communicate well under pressure. If elected, I am excited to take on these pressures.
What issues are you focusing on? We are focusing on student involvement, high textbook prices and other student costs and making sure USG regains the students' trust.
Why did you want to run for this position? I am running for USG president because ASU is changing and USG must make the change as well. I believe that Liz and I will create positive change and complete our campaign goals.
What experience do you have? During my past three years at ASU I have been involved in USG each year, as a Senate assistant for the W. P. Carey School of Business, parliamentarian and a senator. I have also been very involved outside of USG, which includes Residential Life as a residential assistant and creating my own organization, Americans for Informed Democracy. I have also been across the nation representing ASU at many conferences.
Why are you interested in student government? I am interested in student government because it has the ability to impact all students from the time they enter as freshmen to the time they graduate. I would like to improve the student experience at ASU.
In your view, what is the best thing that student government did this year? I personally believe that fighting for the grandfather clause in the meal plan to exempt all students living on campus this year from purchasing a meal plan next year was USG's greatest achievement.
The worst? The worst thing that happened to USG this year was the negative perception by students. There is only one contested election this year, maybe one more with GPSA. This is disappointing. If we can involve more students our image will be seen as proactive and we can have a better student voice.
Where are you originally from? Dallas, Texas
What do you like best about ASU? The best thing about ASU is the amount of organizations in each program, which seek to get students involved in their major on an extra-curricular level.
What do you dislike about ASU? I dislike the lack of student involvement on campus
What has been your favorite class at ASU? Civil Liberties after 9/11
Who has been your favorite professor at ASU? Dr. Padilla
What's your ultimate career goal? I would like to work at a public policy think tank.
What do you hope to do after graduating? Teach For America or law school
What are your hobbies outside of school? Football, traveling and chess
Reach the reporter at kristi.eaton@asu.edu.
