I talked to Franky Paypa (senior, physical therapy) about her AUSA position and the responsibilities that she oversees as secretary, as well as some of her goals for student government and how she plans to utilize her role this year.
Why did you decide to run for AUSA Executive Secretary this year?
My main driving force was my want to service the community and to promote diversity on campus as a student leader. I want to aid Andrews University in both public services as well as spreading cultural knowledge.
What is your job as the executive secretary? What roles do you specifically handle?
My main responsibility is to take minutes during meetings, but I also help preside over meetings if Aya, our president, is unable to attend, and I help the other officers with their different projects and events as another foundation.
What do you enjoy doing while serving this role?
My favorite part about this position is actually the team I get to work with. I may be a little biased, but this year’s AUSA cabinet is so productive, proactive, and most importantly, FUN. It allows me to enjoy the role but also achieve my goals.
Is there a specific event you are excited about this year? Why this event?
Definitely most excited for AUnited Weekend! Last year was a huge success and we’re glad to be bringing it back again. Though I can’t spoil it too much on here, just know that it is definitely something to look forward to *wink wink*.
What are some favorite memories you have from being a part of AUSA (even as an attendant of AUSA events)?
We’re still early on into the school year, but the events that we’ve had so far have been huge successes, and the energy from the student body at each of these events have been so infectious. The Nest & Fireworks at the beginning of this semester was such a crazy experience (especially when it transitioned into an impromptu concert/lively party later into the night).
What are some of the unique qualities you are bringing to the position of executive secretary?
For those who have worked with me in the past, you would know that I’m a very deliberative person, meaning that I take serious care in my decisions and choices. I take pride in my highly organized Google Drive and email inbox, and I really like to make simple, but effective working systems.
Do you have any goals for the organization this year? What is your vision for AUSA?
One of my goals for AUSA is to advocate for more voices to be heard on a larger scale, and to do that I want to collaborate with more clubs and organizations that don’t necessarily have the resources to pull off all the events they want to do. So if you’re a small club and have an idea for a collaboration with AUSA, don’t be afraid to reach out to me, our SVP, or our president! We’re open to new ideas and we want to make these new connections!
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.