Associated Students is having their annual election to determine who will fill their positions for the academic year of 2016-17.

The application process will be open until April 11 at noon. After that candidates can start campaigning until the voting is held on April 19 and 20. Julie Gonzalez, A.S. president, said being a part of A.S. could translate into future leadership endeavors.

“We take our positions very seriously with the students primarily in mind,” said Gonzalez. “If you are ever interested in one day becoming a leader in your community someday, I truly believe student government gives you the experiences and tools to set you on that path.

The requirements to apply for an A.S. position are: student must be 18 years old, must be considered in a good standing at Moorpark College and maintain it throughout the term, must be currently enrolled in five units and maintain a 2.0 GPA. Students should have also completed 12 semester units by the end of the spring semester, when running for a position of president or vice president.

Gonzalez said A.S. as a whole advocates for students at the local, state and national level.

“It is very important for students to participate in the Associated Students elections because students need a voice on campus,” said Gonzalez. “Associated Students not only advocates for students, but we take initiative and actively work towards the enrichment of student’s lives and experiences at Moorpark College.”

Patrick Nordstrom, A.S. external affairs director, said students who wants to make an impact for the college should compete for a position.

“It really gives student empowerment,” said Nordstrom. “Being a part of A.S. plugs you into all the committees and it gives you power to enact real change on campus.”

Nordstrom worked on a sustainability committee, which is in charge of a campaign to get six new hydration stations installed across campus. Carmel Gutherz, A.S. vice president, who works on the committee along with Nordstrom, said she was very proud of the work they did and it was one of her biggest accomplishments.

“We had to design a proposal and follow through an arduous bureaucratic process in order to do this, but it was completely worthwhile because we did something for students and the environment,” said Gutherz.

Gutherz also gave some tips on the campaigning process.

“I know it is impossible to avoid the stress of elections and campaigning, but try to stay level-headed,” said Gutherz. “You do your best campaigning when your mind is clear. Think of elections as a time to get to know the student body on a personal level!”

Nordstrom’s best advice to potential candidates is to be honest.

“Always displays integrity and honesty in the election and your campaign,” Nordstrom said. “Engage student problems you see and tell students what you will do to change those problems. Make sure to utilize the clubs on campus because it can give you a boost.”

During the voting period, A.S. will set up voting booths in the Campus Center. Students can also vote online for their desirable candidates.

For more information on the upcoming student election, visit the Student Center, which is located in the Campus Center.

The application can be found at http://www.vcccd.edu/students/2016-2017-student-elections