Josh Michael Candidate for Senator Questions: 1. What experience and qualifications do you have? 2. What is your platform? What do you hope to accomplish if you win? 3. What I really want students to know about me is…. ?

Candidate Responses:
1. - Student Regent, University System of Maryland (2008-present)
- Student Commissioner, Maryland Higher Education Commission (2007-2008)
- UMBC Representative/Ex-Officio Member, University System of Maryland Student Council (2006-2009)
- Director of Community and Governmental Affairs, UMBC SGA (2007-2008)
- Assistant Director of Community and Governmental Affairs, UMBC SGA (2006-2007)
- Volunteer in Baltimore City schools (Fall 2006 - Winter 2007)
- Studying Political Science and Secondary Education, to graduate in Spring 2010

2. A renewed sense of mission and professionalism is needed for UMBC's Student Government. As a Senator, I will push the SGA to focus on advocacy efforts that address issues important to students. Such issues include affordability, campus life, and academic policies. To effectively advocate, I will work as part of the SGA to communicate with students and proactively research these issues. I will work with Senators to take positions on issues, and then to communicate these stances with campus leaders. A renewed sense of mission and professionalism will advance the student voice on campus, ensuring that the students are at the table in campus decision-making.

3. My experience as the Student Regent for the University System of Maryland gives me a unique perspective on the potential influence that a student government can have on campus. Having worked as a Director and Assistant Director, I also understand the opportunity that exists for the UMBC SGA to better serve students, the core mission. By integrating my knowledge of university politics and policy, I will help the UMBC SGA effectively advocate for students.

Brief Platform Statement:

• restore mission and professionalism to the SGA
• prioritize advocacy in the work of SGA
• establish concrete outreach plans to return the SGA to UMBC students