Samantha Flores (junior, music education) has been elected for a second consecutive year to serve on the Andrews University Student Association’s (AUSA) cabinet as the vice president of social affairs. While campaigning for re-election, Flores continued her first term responsibilities planning upcoming events, such as AUSA’s upcoming banquet. Her time as vice president of social affairs has been highlighted by events such as The Nest, Barn Party and worship gatherings. In an interview with the Student Movement, Flores looked forward to improving upon this school year in her second term.
How did you decide to run for re-election?
I really enjoyed planning and coordinating the events AUSA had this year. I had been thinking about re-running for a while, but I wasn’t going to do it until Alyssa [Caruthers] confirmed she was running for president. I loved working with her this year, and I knew she would make an amazing president, and we would be able to achieve so much together.
What were some of your greatest accomplishments during your first year as vice president of social affairs?
My favorite event we had this year was The Nest. I had two weeks to plan it, and I was very nervous because it was my debut as vice president of social affairs, but the event was a huge success. We had about 400 people come to support, and I loved seeing all the new students come out and get to know each other.
What parts of your job were difficult this past year?
The hardest part for me has been learning to work with different kinds of people. I work with AUSA and my own team (Social Affairs Board [SAB]), so it can be challenging to get everyone to work together.
What do you hope to improve upon or do differently during your second term?
Now that I have established good relationships with different departments, planning events on campus will be smoother because I know who to contact. Most of the SAB team will stay the same next semester, so we are already planning ahead for next year’s events. Getting a head start on this will make the events bigger and better than last year.
What ideas do you have for students for next year?
I want AUSA to be easier to access next semester, and I want the students to know that we will always be there for them. If they have any questions, comments or concerns about events I have done this year or even ideas they have for next year, please don’t be scared to come up and talk to me or reach out to me via my email or social media.
What are some things you hope to improve at Andrews?
Next year, I would love for AUSA to play a bigger role on the social life on campus. We plan events for you guys, but people still don’t know who AUSA is, so I want to reach a bigger demographic. Students should know who their student leaders are so that they can come to us whenever they have concerns about the school. I want AUSA to be seen working all over campus, whether it’s chapels or in co-curriculars, vespers and social media.
What are some of the things you like most about your experience at Andrews?
I love Andrews University because it has allowed me to form meaningful friendships that feel genuine and supportive. The people I’ve met here have become more than just friends; they are a strong community that I can rely on. Additionally, the worship culture at Andrews is something I deeply appreciate. It creates a space where I can connect spiritually and a strong sense of belonging.
You can follow the AUSA and SAB Instagram pages to stay up to date on social affairs and upcoming events AUSA plan to have. To share your thoughts on any of the social events and any other AUSA-related concerns, please use AUSA’s Feedback Form.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.