By Sarah Carlson, Copy Editor
Amy Perez’s days typically last from 6 a.m. to midnight at the earliest, and she said she longs for a Saturday when she will have free time.
Perez, sophomore education major from Houston, is chair of the College Democrats and finds it hard to fit in all her presidential duties between the 17 hours of classes she is taking.
She also works at Abilene Christian Church with children and is on the hospitality committee; she also helps campaign for Rep. Charles Stenholm for the 19th District as well as Art Casarez’s race for Taylor Country sheriff.
“I always have something to do,” Perez said. “I love it though, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
Perez transitioned into the role of chair for College Democrats from vice president last spring when the president stepped down. ACU’s chapter of College Democrats was formed last semester and has around 25 to 30 members.
She said her role is to maintain contact with all members of the organization and to try her best to be there for them, to make sure they know what’s going on and see if they need anything. Perez also tries to build camaraderie between members.
“I’m everywhere at once,” Perez said.
She became involved in politics when she was in the fifth grade and wants to convey her passion for issues and government to the rest of the student body. She said she wants to educate students about issues Democrats stand for, especially those that aren’t social issues, and feels the direction the country is taking under President Bush is wrong. For instance, Perez said she is concerned with the way the Bush administration has been cutting financial aid programs.
“I like to say when I graduate they’re going to hand me a bill instead of a diploma,” Perez said.
She said it is hard to encourage students to become involved in politics and the political groups on campus when most of the students are not educated on the issues at stake.
“Frankly, I can’t understand why they’re not passionate about it,” Perez said. “I believe it is our duty, not only as Americans but also as Christians to participate in the political process.”
