Nicole Skinner, 20, considered a handful of colleges before choosing the University of Idaho. The deciding factor — a campus visit.
“It immediately felt like home and I could easily see myself discovering who I am here,” the UI third-year said. “It’s the perfect size because I knew I would always have something new to try while never fearing that I would slip through the cracks.”
Skinner, who is majoring in economics and political science, said she was able to strengthen that sense of “home” through student involvement, specifically ASUI.
She said she became a senator at the end of her first year after a friend asked if she was interested in running. At the time, she hadn’t really heard of the governing body, but decided to give it a shot.
Carlos Vazquez and Nicole Skinner
Last spring, Skinner was elected as the ASUI president alongside running mate Carlos Vazquez, winning by 39 votes — a 1.8 percent margin over candidates Austin O’Neill and Sean Collins.
She said she enjoyed being a senator, but wanted to have an even bigger impact, leading her to campaign for her current position.
“I quickly realized how crucial it is to have students involved in decisions across campus and the tangible impact that student government has on the university,” Skinner said. “It’s an honor and isn’t a job that should be taken lightly. I have the opportunity to advocate for students, to make their experience here as amazing as possible.”
Skinner said she would like to extend that impact beyond UI by partnering with other public colleges and universities in Idaho to create a report card with legislators’ views on higher education issues, which will hopefully yield “greater advocacy and more state funding.”
She also wants to improve and increase student spaces, as well as raise student turnout in local elections by having a “Party at the Polls” event and revamping voter registration efforts.
UI students are currently able to sign-up at uidaho.turbovote.org and get election reminders.
“It’s crucial that you register to vote and make your voice heard in elections,” Skinner said. “Both local and national elections affect our lives in countless ways and voting is one of the easiest opportunities to impact the world around you.”
Aside from student government, Skinner has worked at the UI Women’s Center for two years, assisting with sexual assault programs on campus. She also helped with voter registration drives through the UI Center for Volunteerism and Social Action.
“I like to dabble in a little bit of everything — involvement comes in many forms,” Skinner said.
After graduation, she said she hopes to attend law school and later become an advocate for sexual assault survivors, manage political campaigns or run for office herself.
Skinner said she would’ve never devised these career goals if she didn’t attend UI or get involved with the Women’s Center and ASUI.
“Getting involved is the best thing you can do for yourself as a student,” Skinner said. “Involved students have the best grades and the most enjoyable experience at college.”
Skinner said she encourages all students to branch out and challenge themselves by joining a new organization or attending a campus event, adding “it’s never too late to get involved.”
“I know plenty of people who realized the value of involvement during their final year or semester and made the most of it,” Skinner said. “The benefits of involvement will last far beyond your time here — it’s a chance for you to grow as a person and discover what truly drives you.”
Olivia Heersink can be reached at [email protected]