Dakota Oldham: Student Events Director candidate interview
What makes you stand out from other candidates, and why should people vote for you?
I think something that I bring to the table is a unique perspective and fresh perspective to USUSA. I have been involved with different types of leadership and involvement throughout my time here at USU, but also some work experience with event planning and stuff. And I’ve loved it. I’ve enjoyed it so much, and I want to do that for Utah State.
What is one improvement that you think student events needs, and how do you plan to implement that?
I think something that I want to do is to create unity within USUSA and student associations and organizations throughout Utah State. I can do that with the help of others and listening to their voices and what they have to share in their visions and their ideas, and incorporating that with my plan and my excitement and ready and hard work to create events that people want to attend that are exciting and fun, but just giving you an experience that everyone wants to be involved in.
If you are not elected for this position, how will you continue to be involved at USU?
Something that I want to continue doing is — I work currently at the PR office, under Max and Ellie, and I love it. I love going to events and taking photos for that. I’d love to continue doing that. And I also am a part of the President’s Cabinet right now, and that’s been a really cool opportunity, just getting to know those individuals. But also I’m a director over the outreach program. What we do is we create an event every month and bring an association or a person — like the mayor is coming in the next few months — and we have an opportunity for the students to get connected with that person. And I would love to continue doing that because it’s been a really cool experience.
How do you plan to effectively take on this new role while also being a student and having your own life responsibilities?
Wow, that’s true. I’ve felt that this semester with planning the running of the candidacy and stuff. Something that I am grateful for is my degree. It’s a general studies degree, and I can kind of move around any way that I want because I want to own my own company someday with graphic design. And that major has kind of allowed me to have more time putting my efforts and my creativity in other places — creating a portfolio and being able to manage a 24-hour job a week and school and now this. It’s been easy, but also overwhelming sometimes. But a to do list, man, that is my go-to thing. I love it.
What is your go-to dance move at a party?
It’s so silly. You move your arms a little bit and then shake your booty a little bit, and it’s so fun because you just go with the rhythm, and you’re just enjoying yourself. As long as you’re grooving with the music, that’s all you can ask for. It’s the best.
-Darcy.Ritchie@usu.edu