Student Government President: "Grateful For The Opportunity"

Name: Jennifer Novoa

Position: 148th (16th female, 6th Latina) president of the Associated Students of MJC 

Enrollment Date: Summer 2019 

Major: Business Administration

Anticipated Graduation Date: Spring 2021

Transfer School: Stanislaus State (with a goal to study for a year in Spain) 

When did you first think about going to college? Why MJC?
I’m a first-generation American and first-generation college student, and, even with two jobs, my single mother did not have enough to pay the bills. I learned early on that education is a great way to move up in life. Fortunately, MJC was close to home, the cost was manageable, and I was familiar with it because my sister had attended here.

How did you get “connected” on campus? 
I knew right away that I was going to love my experience here, and soon got involved with the Associated Students of MJC (ASMJC). It was a great opportunity to meet people. I also joined TRIO – which offers academic and support services to low-income, first-generation students. It’s an amazing program with helpful resources that made my MJC experience much more enjoyable. 

How did it feel to be elected as ASMJC president? 
Surreal! Soon after I applied for the position, we were hit with a global pandemic. I had to prepare myself for a term that would not be what I was expecting or hoping for. However, even as the first-ever virtual president, I will always be grateful for the opportunity to lead and serve our huge student body.

What has it been like to lead during a pandemic?
I would be lying if I said it was easy. I had been so excited to host the ASMJC events that enrich our lively campus. Soon after I heard we were “going remote” for the rest of the year, my team and I listed the events we could make possible over zoom, and made a commitment to stay active on social media. My goal was to do everything I could to ensure students received the resources and assistance they needed.

What motivates you?
I’m inspired by the idea that even if I only help one student, it will be one more person in our community who knows about FLOW (Free Lunch on Wednesdays), health services or financial aid. Ever since I started getting involved on campus, I’ve seen all the great resources offered to our students, and my goal has been to make sure increasing numbers know what is available to them. 

What are your long-term plans?
I don’t have distinct plans for the future, I’m letting God decide my fate for now. I’m a business major so the options are pretty open. Wherever I land, I hope to be content and loving what I do. I know I will continue to serve our community and give back. For example, I would like to mentor young people of color and encourage them to strive for their goals. Growing up in a small town can be difficult because it can be hard to think outside the box or want to be different. Diversity is such a beautiful thing, and I want to remind everyone not to turn their light down when they face adversity, but instead shine ten times brighter.