Ever since my election last spring to the National Student Council, I’ve met some amazing people from our officers’ team, our fantastic state representatives, and our national advisers from NASSP, Ann Postlewaite and Taryn Erminio. However, getting to this point and being able to experience these opportunities is something I would have never imagined for myself two years ago when I first joined student council.
If you’re a student reading this post, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone this year and engage in your school’s student council. Need convincing? From one student to another, here are four reasons why you should get involved:
1. It creates lifelong bonds and networks that support your personal and professional journey.
Whether your school calls it “Student Council,” “Associated Student Body,” or “Student Government Association,” the opportunities are often the same. These include access to statewide conferences, events, and leadership networking. You meet people who become some of your closest friends, and you make connections that go beyond the classroom. These peers will be there to collaborate with you on projects, celebrate wins with you, and lean on you for support. Overall, the teamwork and trust that is built in student council can follow you into careers, college, and more.
2. It builds a culture of pride and school spirit, inspiring students to feel connected and engaged.
Student council plays a significant role in shaping a school’s atmosphere whether it’s through sports games, school events, or spirit days. Being on the student council gives you a say in the culture that your school presents. By organizing events, supporting student voices, and bringing people together, you help create a place where everyone feels proud to belong. The positive energy you build has the power to transform the student experience.
3. It gives you the chance to be part of something bigger than yourself, making a lasting impact on your community.
When you join student council, you are not just standing up for yourself, you are standing up for your classmates and contributing to the legacy of your school. Student council is about working toward goals that help the entire student body, leaving a mark that lasts long after you graduate. Student council also offers one the chance to explore paths in public service and servant leadership.
4. It transforms leadership into life skills, from public speaking to problem-solving, that carry into every stage of life.
Public speaking and problem-solving are two of the many skills used in student council. These skills can help in almost any situation no matter what career. Whether it’s learning to manage a project, negotiate with peers, or present confidently in front of an audience, these experiences translate directly into the real world and a successful future.
