A.S. SPECIAL ELECTION CANDIDATES
Hi Corsairs! At the forefront of my priorities are the experiences of my fellow students
here at SMC. I was given the amazing opportunity this semester to serve as the District
Planning and Advisory Council's Student Representative, which has allowed me to dive
into the issues that our students are facing while closely working with our A.S. President
and try to gain intel that would allow us to target them at the core. As a first-year
out-of-state student who works three part-time jobs, I understand the struggle that
many of our students go through to be able to get the education they deserve, which
is why I would be honored to dedicate my own time in being sure that our students
do not have to worry about things out of their control.
I have also volunteered at a pain management clinic and have been working at SMC Health Services, which have taught me how much I prioritize the needs of the people whose lives are affected by my actions. As the ICC Delegate of the Biotechnology Association and as a board member of the MedDent Society, I have had opportunities to collaborate with many people to deliver a variety of meetings that offer activities that enrich the minds of others. Through all of this, I want to make sure the voices of students are heard and that their needs are consistently being met. Since I take accountability seriously, work with me to foster a better SMC!
Hello! My name is Maria Amabella Ava, and I am running for SMC’s A.S. Vice President.
As a freshman in SMC, I have enjoyed being involved and learning about the community
through the various events and encounters I meet with the people in A.S. This committee
has taught me the importance of collaborative work, alongside my experience being
a treasurer in the International Student Forum club, I hope to solidify those skills
and ideally use them as A.S Vice President. Through the support of my peers, I hope
to be a representation to have the voices of the students on campus be heard, but
also be the one to aid in making their solutions a reality. In terms of accessibility,
I possibly would like to redesign the A.S. office and make it a more open space for
individuals to visit and truly get to know all Board members. If elected, I would
also like to provide students with more opportunities such as research, workshops,
and volunteers to set a good foundation for their career development. I also look
forward to using my position to work with not only the Board, but other students to
demand and work towards building a better institute that feels safe and comfortable.
Despite how daunting the role may be, I am more than ready to conquer every obstacle
that crosses my path. Thank you for your time and consideration.
I came to SMC because it gave me a second chance, much like thousands of other freshmen
looking to kickstart their careers or education. This is only made possible because
our school does one thing better than everyone else: They Care.
Hi, my name is Michael Helfand. Although a freshman, I have thoroughly experienced SMC and am ready to fight for its students because, like our faculty and administrators, I care.
As President of the Chess Club, I've facilitated one of SMC's most popular pastimes, with lessons and tournaments that break cultural boundaries and foster friendships. As a STEM tutor/mentor, I work with students daily to break barriers holding them from success in class and provide them with the guidance needed for success in college. In my free time, I'm on campus, listening to students' experiences, inspiring me to apply my skills toward advocating for their issues.
The most common phrase I've heard on campus is, "Wait, that exists!" This is a testament to our school's need to highlight the diverse resources available and for a reimagining of inclusion within student life.
SMC has plenty to offer, but much more must be done, such as increasing access to sustainable transit options, creating affordable housing for our international community, and, given the rapid deterioration of mental health among Gen Z, guaranteeing consistent access to specialists.
All these goals are possible, and as vice president, I'll fight to make us all feel "Proud to be SMC!"
Hello students and faculty at SMC, I come to you again to fulfill my duties as part
of Associated Students to enforcing the values of enriching the lives of students
at SMC. While I originally applied for director of Activities at first, I unfortunately
did not get the position. However, I choose to not give up as my main objective is
to make sure the students at SMC all feel as if there is structure, functionality,
and a place where students can all feel included. With applying for Director of Budget
Management, I feel I can coordinate meetings to pursue the regarding issue of involvement
of students, provide structure to ensure that we keep a stable environment, and more
importantly, making sure students feel welcomed within their years in college. Within
my experience of managing my own business, making sure to input as much responsibility
onto myself at SMC as much as possible, and being part of Associated Students Publicity
Committee, I am already involved and plan to be even more once I become accepted as
Director of Budget Management. It's not only to ensure a welcoming environment at
SMC, but also ensure stability across all SMC campuses for the benefit of the students.
Hello Corsairs, my name is Jordan Davis, and I’m a first-year business major at SMC
currently running for the Director of Budget Management position. With a passion for
the field of finance and its dynamic nature, I think that my skills and mindset would
be a tremendous boon to the Associated Students Board of Directors. Serving my community
has always been a pleasure of mine, and I hope to pursue it from a brand-new vantage
point.
If I’m elected, I vow to ensure that the club funding process will be as smooth and transparent as possible. As a student worker who currently works in the Auxiliary Services, the department that processes purchase requests or reimbursements for clubs, I have a unique perspective of how club proposals work. I know how much work is involved and how confusing it can be, and I want to ease that process so that clubs can focus less on the money and possibility of approval, and more on making the best possible experience for their club members. With the use of clear and efficient communication, I’ll make sure that clubs come into the proposal process well-informed, they understand how to use their money correctly, and that all processes are in alignment with A.S. Fiscal Policy.
As the chair of the Finance Committee, I vow to make all meetings feel as comprehensible as possible and ensure that no one is left confused at the end of them. I want to work with the Finance Committee and the students as well to foster an environment that feels welcoming, and has none of the stress that money is typically associated with.
Thank you for considering me for this role, and I hope I get the opportunity to work with you in the future.
What's up, SMC students? It's Rita Lin here. I am excited to announce my candidacy
for the position of Budget Management Director in our school's student government.
With three years of experience in budget management and leadership in the ASB and DECA Committee during high school, a deep commitment to responsible financial stewardship, and a passion for benefiting every student, I'm eager to serve you in this crucial role. As director of Budget Management, I pledge to prioritize efficiency, accountability, and student benefits in all financial decisions and programs. Every dollar spent should reflect the benefit of our student body and the value of the community. In other words, I will work hard to communicate with students, faculty, staff, and state government to speak for our student body and ensure that every sound of our students is heard. Every spending from programs and activities will go through careful consideration and planning.
Additionally, I bring strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a collaborative spirit to this position. I am committed to working closely with my fellow student government members and school administrators to develop sound financial policies and initiatives that support our shared goals and aspirations.
I am also deeply committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our school's operations, including budget management. Every student deserves equal access to resources and opportunities, and I will actively advocate for the equitable distribution of funds to support programs and initiatives that advance these principles.
Let us collaborate to promote the student body and ensure that every dollar is spent in the right place to increase the value of our school. Thank you for considering me for this critical role. We can work together to make a meaningful difference and create huge improvements in our student body and lovely campus.
Hello everyone! My name is Ananda Zhandov and I am running for the position of Director
of Basic Needs.
I am interested in this position because I myself immigrated from Ukraine and I understand the challenges a student can face when moving from another country and starting a new chapter of life. Education is a challenge in itself, and financial issues can make it even more challenging. I want to dedicate my time to helping people access resources so that they can be successful in college without much difficulty or struggle. After all, at the end of the day, college is about enjoying your education.
I believe that in order to create a successful community, it is important to help each other with the essentials. Because of political instability, many people have lost their homes and are forced to move to new lands and across oceans away from their families. This can be challenging. I want to help, and together with the Student Association, we will try to provide more resources so students can realize their best potential in education and personal goals.
I've personally talked to numerous individuals navigating this journey and facing challenges that often go unnoticed because they're considered basic. However, for some, these challenges are still significant difficulties. I plan to help people overcome these hardships and make them happier.
Sincerely,
Ananda Zhandov
My name is Bhargav, and my journey from India to Santa Monica College began just a
month after my eighteenth birthday. Over the past two years, this community has embraced
me with open arms, allowing me to be my authentic self. Now, I am eager to give back
by ensuring that all students receive the support they need to achieve their goals
and dreams with a bit more ease.
As a feminine-presenting gay man and an international student, I have navigated my
identity and the complexities of college life, facing both struggles and successes.
My journey would have been easier had I been aware of all the resources SMC offers
its students. As your Associated Students Director of Basic Needs, I am committed
to enhancing the visibility and accessibility of our basic needs services.
I understand the struggle of asking for help, which is why I am determined to take
the first step and ensure that every student has immediate and easy access to these
supports, enabling them to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams. I am eager
to communicate and engage in regular feedback with students, I want everyone to know
that support is always available; you are not alone. Your voice is important. Together,
we can create a supportive community at Santa Monica College, ensuring that each of
us has the necessary tools to thrive.
Hello, my name is Jingbo Zhang. I am running for the director of basic needs. The
reason I want to participate basic needs department is that I think it is a meaningful
event, and I think for this department requirements must contain coordinate ability,
organization ability, time management and responsibility. Since I also held a position
in SW CSSA, which is an international Chinese association, so I have accumulated some
experience in organization and coordination. I really want to provide good service
for our students in SMC. Therefore I will apply for this position. Of course, my average
GPA is A now.
Hello, my name is Kalyn and I’ve been at SMC for 3 years, I’ve seen the campus change
during my time here and have been involved in many student activities on campus. I
am a Peer Navigator, participate in the Black Collegians Program, and have experience
volunteering and giving back to my community. My mission is to ensure all students
have equity in their education at SMC. I will advocate for free school supplies, workshops
to advance students' skills, and access to food resources off campus. I strongly believe
food, transportation, and free services should be provided to enrich student success.
Hello, my name is Stefani Hernandez, and I am running to become your next Basic Needs
A.S. Director at SMC. My commitment is to serve as your advocate, focusing on addressing
and prioritizing essential needs so that every student can succeed on campus. As a
first-generation indigenous college student raised by hard-working immigrant Oaxacan
parents, I deeply value and honor my culture and traditions, which heavily influence
my identity. My experience at SMC has allowed me to utilize essential services which
I aim to improve and expand. From using my tap card for daily commutes and staying
hydrated at water stations to accessing cost-free groceries at the bodega participating
in the bento program for free meals at local restaurants, and ensuring the availability
of pads in restrooms for health and hygiene—these experiences have shown me the vital
role these resources play in our academic and personal success. I am approachable,
a keen problem solver, and place great emphasis on empathy, prioritizing mental health,
and inclusivity. I believe in listening actively to everyone's concerns, comments,
and opinions to improve our supportive community. By supporting diverse backgrounds
in their lifestyles, beliefs, values, cultures, and traditions, I hope to make SMC
a more accommodating place where all students feel welcomed and an integral part of
our learning community. With your input and support, we can work together to address
and enhance the essential basic need services that help us all thrive, academically
and personally.
Hello!
My name is Brenda Carrasco and I am running to become your A.S. Director of Instructional Support. As Director of Instructional Support, I will work as a liaison between students and the instructional and academic support services at SMC. This includes, but is not limited to, the library, bookstore, tutoring labs, counseling centers, and transfer centers.
By serving as your Instructional Support Director, I will dedicate my focus to the student body. I will ensure that the student body is provided with helpful services around SMC’s campus. As a student who frequently utilizes the resources provided by SMC, I want to ensure that more students become aware of these resources. My main goal as your Instructional Support Director is to satisfy the students’ needs and widen the availability of SMC’s resources to students by pushing them closer toward their reach.
A few words about my background are that I am a first-generation, Mexican-American, college student who strives to impact today’s society positively. I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and running. I was inspired to run for the A.S. Director of Instructional Support position because I want to ensure that students can easily access support-related services. I don’t want students to hesitate when seeking instructional or academic services, rather I want them to feel comfortable, knowing SMC provides the necessary resources for their educational success. I am here to become part of the support system at SMC!
I have always been passionate about promoting fairness and honor in every community
I've been in. Throughout my academic journey, I have demonstrated a strong commitment
to ethical conduct and accountability. I believe in the importance of impartiality
and ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity and respect, regardless
of their background or circumstances.
I am interested in being part of the Associated Students leadership because I would
love to make a positive impact on our campus community and give back since SMC has
already given so much to me. I have seen how powerful student leadership is when it
comes to driving meaningful change and advocating for the needs and interests of our
diverse student body and I want to be a part of it.
It was almost impossible participating in ASB in my high school due to strong nepotism
behavior. With a background in peer mediation, I bring experience in conflict resolution
and a dedication to ensuring every voice is heard.
As someone aspiring to become a lawyer, serving on the Judicial Board will provide
valuable experience in legal processes and decision making that will be beneficial
to my future career. If elected, I will prioritize transparency, collaboration, and
equity in every decision. Together, let's uphold the values of integrity that define
our beloved Santa Monica College.
Hello everyone! I'm Austin Lo, an international student born and raised in Taiwan.
I'm excited to run for the Judicial Board, and I believe my experience in past student
governments and my dedication to upholding fairness aligns well with the responsibilities
of this role. I aim to ensure that decisions made by our student government are always
fair and transparent, especially during when questions arise about accountability
or authority.
I intend for the Judicial Board to remain an effective appellate body for election disputes and a trusted overseer of impeachment proceedings. I'll contribute by actively participating in discussions and committees that help ensure our processes are clear and just. I genuinely care about creating and building a campus community where everyone's rights are protected and trusted. I want everyone's voices to be respected and used as guidance for decisions made in our government.
I envision a board that prioritizes transparency, accessibility, and the pursuit of justice for every fellow student. With your support, we can work together to uphold our shared values and create an environment where accountability thrives, ensuring that we serve the best interests of all students. I look forward to the opportunity to earn your trust and make a positive impact on our campus.
I, Javier Rodriguez, am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Judicial
Board member. With a deep commitment to integrity, fairness, and justice, I aim to
serve our school community with dedication and impartiality. As a student, I understand
the importance of upholding the values that support our educational institution.
I believe that every student should be treated with fairness, respect, and equity.
I will strive to ensure that the judicial process is transparent in order to foster
trust and confidence in our institution, hold students accountable for their actions
while also recognizing the importance of rehabilitation and growth, I will also advocate
for the rights of all students, ensuring that due process is followed and students
are treated fairly and with dignity. I will encourage open communication between students,
faculty, and administration to address concerns and promote understanding. I am committed
to serving our community with fairness, respect, integrity, and compassion. With my
8 years of experience as a youth leader and organizer at a non-profit organization
that aims to better educational structures in low-income communities, together we
can build a stronger, more inclusive campus environment where every student feels
valued and respected.
Hello students of SMC!
My name is Sean Slingsby and I will be running for the A.S Judicial Board Position. During my time at SMC I have witnessed the wonderful communities here on campus and as a member of the Judicial Board my goal is to strengthen the student body at this school through trust and transparency. I will strengthen the communication between the students and the student government through constantly giving updates on what is going on and upcoming in the Judicial Board. During my time at SMC many of the people I have met have voiced their complaints on the mystery of student government and judicial rulings on campus. My mission is to demystify this program so that people understand the schools current dilemmas and can more accurately voice their opinions. Participating in elections, events, and volunteering should not be a hassle at SMC.
For this upcoming election for the Judicial board position at SMC vote SLINGSBY!
Hello everyone!
My name is Tania Siddiqi, and I'm currently a first year student here at SMC. I'm
more than grateful to be able to participate as a current candidate for the student
judicial board!
Although this will be my very first time running for office, I am confident in my abilities to serve and cater to the needs of the student body. As a prospective judicial board member, my main priority is to be an advocate for the many diverse voices present at SMC, even for those who may not have one. As a good listener who is persistent on having changes being made, I will create an environment that will let one feel comfortable enough to express their concerns freely. Justice in the face of conflict is crucial, and I intend to bring just that when these circumstances occur. As a judicial board member, I will honor and uphold all beliefs.
Thank you!
Hey everyone! I’m David Duncan, and I’m running to be your next A.S. President. I
want to be your advocate at SMC – helping our students succeed by removing barriers
to success and providing support to those in need. As a low-income student born and
raised in LA, I understand what it’s like to struggle with all my responsibilities.
In addition to my studies, I’ve worked two part-time jobs, lead environmental justice
campaigns, volunteered in my community, and cared for my elderly grandparents. These
experiences have taught me resilience – and how to advocate for what matters.
Every student’s voice, no matter big or small, has the potential to ignite great change
within our educational institutions. In the words of William Butler Yeats, “Education
is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” My name is Tiffany Lee,
and I am thrilled to be running for your next A.S Secretary.
When I boarded a flight from Colombia to start a new life in L.A, I promised my mother
that all her efforts would be worth it. Thus, a few weeks after starting, I applied
to the Judicial Board in A.S, but was denied as I was only in my first semester. I
come back now, two years later, knowing I am equipped with the necessary experience
to take on a responsibility like this one. I remember falling in love with the International
Student Forum as it gave me some of my closest friends to date. After being a general
member, I soon applied for the board and was appointed as the meeting organizer. 
Hello, my name is Louisiane, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Director
of Student Outreach position at SMC. 
Hi corsairs! My name is Valeria Castillo, my friends call me Val. I’m a first-year
student planning to major in Economics. In my free time I like to run, meditate and
read about philosophy. I believe in a world where everyone has the ability to succeed
and I am committed to taking part in that fight. I am passionate about making sure
every voice is heard and every perspective is given a place. I didn’t have an easy
time in high school, I struggled in a lot of my classes due to my disabilities but
I was able to make it thanks to the support that I had. That’s when I knew I wanted
to do the same thing for others. Today, Santa Monica College has made me the person
that I am, and I am excited at the opportunity to give back to my community. I am
certain that through collaboration we can make SMC a place where everybody feels included,
supported and connected. That is why I am running for A.S. Director of Equity and
Diversity!
Hi Everyone! 
Hello! I'm Gabriel, and I'm thrilled to announce my candidacy for Director of Publicity.
Currently serving as President of the I.D.E.A.S. club, where I advocate for undocumented
students, my goal as Director of Publicity is to spotlight campus events and share
student stories. I am dedicated to raising awareness about every service that SMC
offers to support you academically, personally, and emotionally. With my knowledge
in social media and Marketing, I ensure effective communication and outreach, bridging
our digital and physical communities so that our voices are heard wherever we are.
I aspire to use this position to amplify every voice and foster connections, advocating
not just for Latino, undocumented, and Indigenous students, but also for first-generation
individuals. I am committed to being a voice for all, building a campus community
of equity, inclusion, and opportunity for growth is within reach
My name is Julia Kowalski and I am running for A.S. Director of Sustainability! I
am a motivated environmental advocate, and I get things done. Before coming to SMC,
I worked for a venture capital firm that invests in sustainable food innovation. There,
I promoted plant-based food startups like Good Catch and Meati, and connected them
to grants and other funding opportunities. After arriving at SMC last year, I worked
with “Students For Safer Streets” to promote the “Healthy Streets LA” measure, which
makes transportation more sustainable by mandating the construction of protected bicycle
lanes and infrastructure that reduces traffic. This bill just passed in the March
2024 primary, thanks to the coalition of university support we helped to build! As
the current primary commissioner of sustainability, I am working to implement the
installation of 10 solar umbrellas on campus!
My name is Esmeralda Hernandez, and I’m running to be your student trustee!
My name is Eduardo, I'm currently attending my second semester here at SMC in which
I plan to major in Architecture! During my free time I like to travel around LA, seeing
around the sights and exploring the numerous activities this city has to offer with
close friends. As a result, one of the reasons why SMC caught my attention is due
to the variety of activities and programs this campus provides. I’m involved within
numerous activities and programs that SMC provides such as Scholars, EOPS, and the
Adelante Club. These programs have uplifted me in thriving throughout my time in SMC
and I believe others fellow students find value in these programs as well. As a result,
I believe I can uphold the prosperity of activities and programs to function orderly
as a member of the Judicial Board Committee.
Hi everyone! My name is Jinxi Zhang. I'm currently studying Political Science here.
And now, I've decided to run for a position on our school's Judicial Board. My journey
through Political Science has taught me the importance of fairness and justice, not
just in theory, but in everyday life.