Meet the student body president of ASU's Downtown Phoenix campus

Yasmin Alvarado is the new Undergraduate Student Government president for ASU’s Downtown Phoenix campus. She is entering her third year at ASU as a senior and is majoring in public service and public policy. 

Alvarado has big ideas for her final year at ASU, and she has a plan to make them a reality. 

“I think my biggest inspiration is my generation. I have always said that I believe my generation will be the one to change the world,” she said.

Alvarado will graduate with her bachelor’s degree in spring 2020. She is enrolled in the 3+1 program for public administration and looks forward to graduating with her master’s degree in spring 2021.

Alvarado spoke with ASU Student Life about her goals for the upcoming year for the Downtown Phoenix campus, why she ran for student government and how Sun Devils can get involved with student government. 

Why did you run for student government?

I ran for student government because I want to advocate for students. I want students to know that their voice is important to us. During my campaign, my ticket’s platform included civic engagement: creating change through storytelling, expanding commuter student resources, expanding our campus’s menstrual hygiene program and providing accessible professional clothing. We want students to be aware of the many resources ASU has to offer so they can take advantage of those and feel that they belong. 

What does your position entail?

As president, I help oversee student-run services and advocate for student initiatives. Each USG allocates funds to different clubs and organizations that promote ASU pride and tradition. We make sure that students’ concerns are heard at university, local and state levels.

What are your goals for this upcoming year and what do you plan to get done?

My biggest goal is to create a professional clothing closet on the Downtown campus. As Downtown is very business-professional oriented, it is important that students have the resources to be successful. Many students may not know how to dress for interviews or professional opportunities or may not have access to the clothing. USG-Downtown wants to help provide this type of clothing through a library-checkout program.

Yasmin Alvarado is a public service and public policy major. She is also the Undergraduate Student Government president at ASU's Downtown Phoenix campus.

What issue or problem are you most passionate about positively impacting?

There is a disconnect between commuter and transfer students, and I want to find a way to bridge the gap and get these students involved. They are as much of a Sun Devil as on-campus students and deserve to experience college in the same way.

What would you say to someone who wanted to run for a position in student government?

I would say that running for student government will be a challenge but one that is definitely worth it. Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone, be involved in the policy process and have fun!

Why did you choose to come to ASU?

I chose ASU because it made the most financial sense. ASU was the only school that gave me a full ride, minus housing. I’m happy I decided on ASU. It is where my sister attended college, and I absolutely love the Charter. 

What’s your favorite memory at ASU so far?

I think my favorite memory at ASU has to be when I was appointed Senate president for USG Downtown last school year. I think that moment made me realize that this is where I belong.

What are your favorite places to hang out on your campus?

My favorite places to hang out on the Downtown campus are at the Undergraduate Student Government Downtown office [at the Post Office], Starbucks inside of Taylor Place and the Barrett Suite.