Before the semester comes to an end, the votes are finally in for the class presidents of the 2017-2018 school year. Congratulations to Asyera Clarke, Alanna Gracia, Jayda Gilmore, and Raffaele Albano, for winning their elected positions in the student body.

To get to know them better and share some plans they have for the year, Presidents Alanna Gracia and Jayda Gilmore have come forward, so kind and eager to share some information about themselves, their concerns, and goals for American International College.

Alanna Gracia, the sophomore class president, was born in New Bedford, Mass. When she heard of the great occupational therapy program AIC offers, she couldn’t help but enroll to pursue her interest in public health. She is, of course, an OT major, but she also loves playing sports. She plays defense on AIC’s Women’s Soccer team while also taking part in intramural Dodgeball and Volleyball.

“I was inspired to run for class president because I was vice president in high school and I loved being involved and speaking on behalf of my fellow classmates,” said Gracia.

She also shares some information about the campaign and election process.

“I liked going around to other sophomores telling them about the election and getting to know some people I haven’t gotten the chance to meet,” Gracia said. “But there wasn’t much of a campaign because no one ran against me.”

Alanna is hardworking and dedicated. She is also a Libra, among people who are known for their kind and gentle nature. She shares her opinions on what she feels needs to change at AIC, based off the comments and concerns of her fellow peers.

“I would like to see the food in the dining commons get better and to also have a better variety of choices,” said Gracia.

Her top goals are to make sure the sophomore class and student body has a fun and memorable year and to also make sure the issues and concerns of everyone are addressed. What she loves most about AIC is it’s a small campus. Gracia says it makes it easier to make friends and there’s a familiar face wherever you go. She also reminds students that working hard and staying focused all while getting involved and having fun is the key to a successful school year.

Sophomores are going to be doing massive things thanks to Alanna and her amazing plans to make this an exciting and enjoyable year. She also promises to stay dedicated and speak on concerns and issues on behalf of the sophomore class.

Now it is time to meet the junior class president, Jayda Gilmore who is from Elkridge, Md. She chose to come to AIC for its athletic and academic opportunities and is majoring in Human Biology. Jayda also plays point guard for AIC’s Women’s Basketball Team and enjoys hanging out with friends and family.

“With me being a competitive person and athlete, I was excited for the campaign and election process,” Gilmore shares. “Although no one ran against me either,” she pointed out.

Her ability to interact and connect with a wide variety of people is what is most interesting about her. She is a Taurus, whose nature is ambitious and reliable and makes her an excellent leader and friend. What she loves most about AIC is the atmosphere, which she says feels like a home away from home.

“My natural appeal to people and my ability to make others feel comfortable while talking to me is what drove me to become class president,” said Gilmore.

“If people are comfortable to share their concerns and problems with me, then it gives me a better idea of what they think and how I can make improvements at the school for everyone to have a positive experience and attitude at AIC,” she added.

She has thrilling plans especially for her junior class. Some activities include a meet-and-greet for the junior class to meet the cabinet, become more acquainted with each other, and share thoughts and concerns about the school.

“I want to make improvements on the hours and access of the D.C., the library, and other resources the students may need,” said Gilmore.

With these facilities adjusting their hours, they are better able to accommodate the needs of students who work, play sports, or live off campus. She also wants to create a club to help students begin and complete their application process for grad school.

“Trust the process” is a quote and great advice Gilmore wants to share with AIC students and faculty. With patience and effort, all doors will open and anything is possible.

Juniors can look forward to a memorable year with Jayda’s plans improve our school for the benefit of everyone.

Albano and Clarke were not available for this interview. However, both presidents are still available on campus or by email to express your requests or concerns. Both will be interviewed next semester for the YJ, so stay tuned.

This year at AIC will be a productive one with the creative and helpful ideas our leaders have planned for us all. Class president isn’t only a title of leadership and responsibility, but a platform for students to engage and communicate with each other to build closer and long-term relationships for the betterment of the school and our lives.

Let’s all contribute to making AIC a comfortable home and productive learning environment and make this school year the best one possible.