Candidate for Vice President
Tyro Devolites
Century College (Will be transferring to Normandale in the fall)
Bio
My name is Tyro Devolites, I've grown up in Minnesota my whole life. I am a person who wants to create change for the better, while also being myself. Growing up I have always felt different from my peers, that my mind and personality wasn't the same as theirs. Now that I'm older I realize differences in people can create strength. Differences in backgrounds and personalities can bring new and exciting changes to the world! I consider myself a bit of a story teller, between table top roleplaying games and writing my own fictional stories, I consider myself to be a creative person as art and writing has been a way for me to express myself. Often times life events will influence my creations, they help to mold my own stories. I think the same can be said with my life story, how different events in my own life have molded me into who I am and what I stand for. Hence I believe everyone deserves a chance to share their stories, to be able to express themselves, and I want to help.
What degree or certificate program are you seeking?
Psychology Transfer Degree
Please describe your previous student government or professional experience, and how it has prepared you for this position.
I joined my student senate my freshman year of college, by doing this I learned so much more than I would've otherwise. I learned many of the issues college students were facing, between lacking basic needs, funds for college, and various other issues. With my position in student senate I am able to help bring ideas and concerns to the table and we as a group are able to discuss and create plans of action. I have had many jobs in my life, each one giving more life experience than the last. A major benefit though was the exposure to other people's lives and their backgrounds. I was shown how people may experience different struggles in their lives. How having resources can truly save someone's life, and how a lack of resources can ruin it. I believe my experiences and knowledge would be useful in a leadership position, as I want to raise of the voices of my fellow students. To make sure they are able to get the resources they need, and so the demand for change is met.
Why are you running for this position?
I want to use my skills and knowledge to help create positive changes. I also want to make sure people's voices are heard, especially those who may be usually pushed to the sidelines. They deserve a say as well.
What challenges do you see facing Minnesota's community and technical college students?
Mental Health Epidemic: Every year I can see my peer's mental health deteriorating. Often from different life stressors, I would love to see more mental health resources on campuses
Accessibility: Accessibilities on campuses I've seen are 50/50 on quality. Campuses may not always have easy to get to handicap restrooms, proper side walks, and they may not be able to properly fulfil the recommended accommodations for a student. I would like to see an improvement in this field.
College tuition: It seems to only be going up. Many of my friends who had dreams of going to college cannot afford college AND the cost of living. I believe the tuition needs to stop going up, and either be reduced or removed completely.
International Students Issues: I have heard from several of my international student peers, they are not often getting the same resources that their peers may be getting. They are not even eligible to do the FAFSA. I would like to see an improvement on resources for our international students.