2011-2012 ASUSU Government Relations Council & Student Lobbyist Application

Thank you for expressing your interest in being  part of the 2011-2012 ASUSU Government Relations Council & Student Lobbyists! I'm so excited for the upcoming school year.  Being a member of the GRC is a great opportunity, and I believe that next year is going to be one of the best we've ever had.  

Below you'll find the answers to some questions about the program and a link to the application.  

Please feel free to contact me with any questions.


Kirsten Frank
ASUSU Executive Vice President

FAQ/APPLICATION LINK FOR ASUSU GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL & STUDENT LOBBYIST PROGRAM
2011-2012 School Year


What is the Government Relations Council & Student Lobbyist Program?
The ASUSU Government Relations Council (GRC) is a student-run organization that focuses on getting students involved in the political process.  The GRC is nonpartisan and concentrates on issues and projects that are important to all, regardless of political affiliation.  The GRC acts as a link between the Utah State University student body and state, county and city governments; the organization is responsible to be actively involved in political issues directly related to higher education.


In conjunction with the GRC, the ASUSU Student Lobbyists are the primary student lobbyists who represent the USU student body during the Utah State Legislative Session (January 24th-March 4th) of each year.  The Student Lobbyists spend several days (up to 6) during each legislative session on Utah’s Capitol Hill meeting with legislators to discuss issues directly related to the university.  Student Lobbyists receive 2 credits (currently Pass/Fail, letter grade pending for 2011-12 school year) for participating in the internship and weekly seminar, as well as valuable connections on both the university and state levels and a hands-on political learning experience. 


For the 2011-2012 school year, the GRC and Student Lobbyists will be combined in to one group of students so as to provide a more comprehensive learning experience.  


Who can be on the Government Relations Council?
Any current USU student will be considered for the council, regardless of class standing or major. No prior knowledge of government or the political process is required, however, those with a passion for civic awareness are encouraged to apply. Approximately ten applicants will accepted onto the council for the 2011-2012 school year.


What does the Government Relations Council do?
In addition to the duties described above, as a member of the council you will plan and execute events and activities around campus to create awareness and encourage students to become more civically aware.


What kind of time commitment is required?
You MUST be able to regularly attend the weekly meeting on Thursdays from 4-5pm. During Fall Semester up to 5 hours/week may be required of you (hours will vary 1-5, depending on the week).  During the General Legislative Session (Mid-January to Mid-March) you will be missing approximately one day of school per week to lobby the Utah State Legislature (8am-4pm on average).  These trips are school excused, and expenses are subsidized with the exception of personal lunch (lunch will be provided on occasion). 


I'm looking for applicants who will be committed, self-motivated, and serious about their membership on the council.

In addition to your application, a resume is also strongly encouraged.  You may submit a resume with your application by attaching it to an email.  Send resumes to frank.kirs@gmail.com. 

Applications are due by Friday, September 16th.  In some cases, applicants may be asked to come in for a brief interview during the week of September 12th-16th.

Applicants who are accepted to the council will be notified by Tuesday, September 20th .  The first GRC meeting of the 2011-2012 school year will be held at 4pm on Thursday, September 22nd .  

Questions? Email me at frank.kirs@gmail.com, or stop by my office (TSC 338).

THE APPLICATION FOR 2011-2012 IS NOW CLOSED.