Josh Eastby
candidate for Public Affairs Senator

My name is Josh, and I am running to be your next SGA Senator from the College of Public Affairs and Administration. At UIS, I’m studying Political Science, Legal Studies, and Economics. In my two years here, I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in many organizations, giving me firsthand experience in the great work of students across campus. While I have served on many campus committees including the Academic Integrity Council, and the CAP Honors Steering Committee, I feel the time I have spent working in the Office of Financial Assistance has been the most valuable. Everyday I’m helping students with financial aid, directing them to the right office or right form, and aiding them with their questions about the various forms of financial aid. While most students will come by the Office of Financial Assistance at some point in their college career, I know we can do more to educate students on the cost of college, fees, and scholarships. It’s time the SGA did more, and if I am elected to the SGA, I want to start here. I would like to host additional workshops on financial aid and scholarships. Additionally, I’d foster a more open dialogue about student fees, meal plans, and student insurance. We are often told what fees are, but we need to begin learning more about why they are set at a certain rate; that information should be open, accessible, and hopefully available on the SGA website. Further, my time as a mentor in the Leadership for Life community service wing has shown me the importance of community service and giving back; If elected, I will work to increase opportunities for student leadership and service, both on-campus and in the Springfield community. Thank you for your support, and I hope to earn your vote!