By Dante Iafrate
@danteiafrate
Honestly, I had no clue about what was going to happen when I put in my application to become Springfield College’s student trustee. Firstly, it all started with a Google Form. I filled it out and provided some information about my leadership experience, after which I got a call for an interview in front of a group of trustees. Being in that Zoom call was simultaneously scary and exciting. The whole college was being represented by me and I was very much aware of it. It was clear to them that I wanted to prove through my actions that I was the right person to represent students because I am very passionate about it.
President Cooper was the one who was next in line for the very important meetings. It was at this point that she told me that I had been chosen to be the next student trustee. A wave of strong feelings came over me, the main one being that of pride, which I even recall wondering whether this opportunity was a dream or real life. Despite realizing that it was going to be a huge experience, I actually did not expect to gain so much understanding from it.
One of the most important things that comes along with being a student trustee is becoming the link between students and the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees consists of people who make significant decisions regarding the college’s long-term vision, such as upgrading facilities and strategic planning. My job has been to make sure the students are allowed to influence these processes. One thing that has been a highlight for me is the participation in the Board of Trustees meetings all year long.
A major part of my job is my interaction with the students. I go to SGA meetings, and that has actually turned out to be one of the most effective ways to get informed about campus life. There, I hear what students discuss, what their main concerns are and what their colorful plans for SC are. This is one of the ways that allows me to map out future conversations with the board according to their priority.
Both experiences are packed with challenges and at the same time give me significant lessons in how to meet the expectations of both sides and bring the needs up to a certain level. At times, it requires more listening than talking, and at times giving the floor to someone because it really needs to be said.
What I have gained from this experience is that the title of a student trustee is not a glamorous one. It is more like the role of a silent supporter. It is to listen, show empathy, and make sure the students get the feeling that they are part of the college’s larger picture.
In a very short time, I will celebrate my first year with the Trustees. I intend that the new person in this position will understand that it is not all about the job or title. It is a chance to bring changes, even if they are just little ones. It is a chance to define the coming times for Springfield College.
Friday, Nov. 14, is the application deadline for becoming the new Student Trustee and I would like to invite everyone, specifically first-semester sophomores, who are interested and are willing to take the challenge of leading and representing their fellow students to apply, as this is such a rare opportunity.
It has been a year that has presented me with a very powerful opportunity to influence others and change myself as well. The topic of leadership and representation drives me to conclude that the most significant gain is the understanding of how powerful the students’ voice can be, assuming it is used for good.
Photo courtesy of Springfield College