As this spring semester kicks off the new year, so does Associated Students of Diablo Valley College. ASDVC had their first informational session of the semester on Wednesday, Jan. 16. This was an introductory meeting for those who are interested in joining ASDVC. Students in this organization are responsible for representing DVC students. The student run governing body seeks to unite students of DVC in one local organization and advocate for their various interests and concerns.

To be a part of ASDVC, there are certain criteria that need to be fulfilled. Students who are interested in joining must attend an information session, be taking at least five units during the semester, have at least a 2.0 GPA, be in good academic and disciplinary standing, be able to attend meetings on Tuesdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., they must serve on at least one college, district or ASDVC committee, and they must actively participate within the group, which includes going on retreats. Students who would like to join ASDVC for the first time must also complete a petition. This includes receiving at least 250 signatures by February 1st at 12 pm.

As a member of ASDVC, you must serve on at least one of the many different committees that govern our school. In addition, there are 12 positions that operate as executive officers, such as president, vice president of executive affairs, secretary, and many more. Also, new students who gain the needed 250 signatures for membership are able to stay with ASDVC for one full year, in this case, spring and fall of 2013.

Joining such an established organization is not only a fun way to get involved in school, but it also prepares you for the real world. Jang Won Suh, a member of ASDVC who lead the meeting, claimed that it helps students extend their speech abilities and it also gives students the “opportunity to develop leadership skills.”