AJ stands for Andrew Jackson, our 7th president. His reputation for toughness earned him the nickname "Old Hickory." A hero of the War of 1812, Jackson has appeared on the $20 bill since 1928.

Thinking about running for student elections can be scary and nerve-racking because other people are vying for the same position.

You're wondering, "Why should people vote for me? What would I do if I win? How do I get my name on the ballot?"

Take a deep breath. With a little planning, you can be on your way to winning your election.

Why should I run?

First: decide why you want to run.

Before you do anything else, you need to decide why you want to run.

The best reason: you want to help other students. For example, if you run for student council, you should realize that your main job would be to help improve things in your school.

If you run for president of a club, and you win, organize and plan to help your club meet its goals.

Where do I start?

Advice from middle-school students who've been there. Advice from Students

Erin, a former student council member, says base your strategy around:

• Why you're running
• What duties the position requires
• When the election will take place
• How the election process works

"Ask students from different groups what they like and dislike about your school so that you are aware of their concerns, " Erin adds.

"If you're only running because you think it will look good on a college application or to impress your parents and teachers, you shouldn't run," says Andy, a school officer.

Katie, a former student council president, says, "Think about what you care about most, and find ways to have it run throughout everything you do."

Close

After you've decided why you're running, find out how your school's elections work. Ask a teacher or your principal what you have to do to run, and find out the deadlines.

Most schools require nominations. This means that someone has to say that they think you make a good candidate.

Don't miss your chance because you waited for someone else to think of you for a job that you know you can do. Ask someone to nominate you!

After that, start campaigning! Find out your school's campaign rulesCampaign Rules

For example, your school might limit how many posters you can put up.

Close and...

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