HC NYU: What inspired you to run for the position of president of the Weinstein Hall Council?
SS: Well, I’m too young to be the president of the country so I decided to settle for Weinstein…just kidding, I love Weinstein! The catalyst behind my decision to run for president is undoubtedly my desire to work with people. It might sound cheesy to some people, but I genuinely feel incredibly rewarded knowing that I am helping and representing other residents through my position. Just like every other college student, I’ve been involved in various leadership positions throughout high school; however, each one has shown me the potential for improvement. As president, my goal is to represent, support, assist, and guide a group of individuals who share the same residential experience that I do. When I decided to run, I knew I didn’t want to be some distant, patronizing individual who just organized meetings and wrote with a fountain pen. I want to be approachable, attentive, and as resourceful as possible.
HC NYU: How many members are currently in the Weinstein’s Hall Council?
SS: Currently, there are 25 floor representatives, and 9 Executive Board members, adding up to a total of 34 General Assembly members. The Executive Board consists of myself (the President), the Director of Training & Development, the Director of Business Administration, the Director of Service, the Director of Communication, two Directors of Advocacy, and two Directors of Events.
HC NYU: What is the main mission of Hall Council for this year?
SS: Our mission for this year is to provide and facilitate an inviting and enjoyable atmosphere (even with white cinderblock walls!) in which everyone feels comfortable expressing their opinions and complaints (but hopefully there won’t be many of those!).
HC NYU: Do you have any innovative ideas for Hall Council activities?
SS: Well, we currently have some in the works – but those are surprises! But aside from those, our aim is for everyone to have a good time. Our goal is to ensure that our funds are allocated wisely and are directed towards events that can encourage active resident participation and that are, obviously, FUN. Ideally, we want to utilize events and programs, which allow everyone to have fun while also raising awareness or funds for community service projects and organizations.
HC NYU: What do you see in the Hall Council that should be improved?
SS: NOTHING, because we are PERFECT. Kidding, again. In any body of leaders, whether they are baby college freshmen or the suit-and-tie businessmen of Wall Street, there are always conflicts and complications. However, it is our duty as a coherent group of individuals to make the necessary amendments to ensure that those issues are eliminated – in an understanding and considerate manner. When it comes to improvement, I think I can speak on behalf of all Hall Council members when I say that we want to improve ourselves through the improvement of Weinstein. This means, growing as individuals and as a group in strength and morale – while improving the residential experience at Weinstein.
HC NYU: What other extracurricular activities do you participate in? Which one is your favorite? Why?
SS: Music! I sing and play piano (and a little bit of guitar). I have been in choir for 7 years and love singing everything from pop a capella to classical choral music. You can lock me in a room with a piano, and I’ll be content until you decide to open the door. It’s the most beautiful form of entertainment in which I can completely lose myself. It allows me to make full use of all the traits I like about myself, and allows that confidence to translate into other part of my life, including being president.