Turning Student Voices into Action: College of SBS Senator Selena Morales
Student leadership takes many forms, but for Selena Morales, a junior majoring in political science, it means creating meaningful connections between students and the systems that represent them. As a College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Senator with the Associated Students of the University of Arizona (ASUA), Morales works to amplify student voices, promote transparency, and build community across the College of SBS. In this Q&A, she reflects on her path to student government, the projects she is most passionate about, and how her experiences have shaped her goals in politics and public service.
What inspired you to get involved with ASUA and eventually run for SBS Senator?
I’ve been interested in student government since I was a freshman because it aligned closely with my major and my long-term interest in politics. Once I learned more about ASUA and what student government actually does, it really stuck with me. What ultimately pushed me to run for SBS Senator was hearing from other students about what they wanted to see change on campus. A lot of people talked about wanting more transparency and better communication, and I felt motivated to be someone who could help bridge that gap. I wanted to be a clear connection between students and student government and make sure their voices were being heard.
What does your role as SBS Senator look like on a day-to-day basis, and what projects or goals are you most focused on this year?
No two days look the same. Outside of my classes and club meetings, my schedule is constantly changing. I’m often running between meetings or responding to new issues as they come up, which makes the role unpredictable but also exciting. One of my main projects this year is organizing the first-ever SBS Club Fair. The goal is to bring all SBS clubs together in one space so they can connect, collaborate, and communicate more effectively. I really believe that working together as a college is more impactful than working separately. Another major focus for me has been domestic violence awareness. It was something I ran on, and I’m currently helping launch a new domestic violence awareness club. I want to create a safe, student-led space where people feel supported and informed, especially since these conversations are often difficult to have with administration or professionals. Beyond that, I’m always working on smaller, day-to-day issues that students bring to me as they arise.
You recently went on a Model UN trip. What was that experience like, and how did it connect to your interests in politics and leadership?
The Model UN trip was a really fun and meaningful experience. It was my third time attending the conference in Chicago, but each year feels completely different. I enjoy seeing how debates unfold and how committees operate, especially since Model UN closely mirrors how international policy discussions happen in real life. At the American Model United Nations conference, universities from across the country represent different countries and work through global issues by debating, drafting resolutions, and practicing diplomacy. Being part of that process connects directly to my interest in politics and policy. It allows me to explore what that kind of work could look like in the future and helps me understand whether it’s a path I want to continue pursuing.
You did a social media takeover during the Model UN trip. What was that like and what part of the trip felt the most fun or worth sharing?
The social media takeover was honestly so fun. I got to document the trip with my friends, and they were all really excited to be part of it. Vlogging made the experience feel more interactive, and it was nice to be able to look back and see everything we did instead of just remembering it. One of my favorite moments from the trip was visiting Chinatown and finally seeing the Bean in Chicago for the first time, even though it was my third time there. Those moments felt especially worth sharing because they captured both the academic and fun sides of the experience.
Outside of academics and ASUA, what are a few things you enjoy or ways you stay grounded during a busy semester?
Spending time with my friends is the biggest way I stay grounded. They’re incredibly important to me, and I genuinely don’t know how I’d manage everything without them. Whether we’re studying together, grabbing coffee, or just spending time hanging out, it helps me decompress and reset. I also make sure I get rest when I can, especially during busier weeks. Having that balance keeps me from feeling overwhelmed.
Looking ahead, do you see yourself continuing in politics or public service, or has this experience shaped your future goals in any way?
I definitely see myself continuing in politics and policy. This experience has only strengthened that interest for me. Being part of ASUA has shown me how change happens and how important it is to have people who genuinely care about representing others. I know politics can be polarizing, but I believe politics are necessary, and I want to be part of that process. Being able to work so closely with students and advocate for their needs has made me even more excited about pursuing this path in the future.
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