My name is Megan Soto-Benitez, and for my sophomore year, I have been able to serve as the Bellisario College of Communications Representative for the University Park Undergraduate Association. As a representative, I have worked to uplift the students within my college with an emphasis on equity, advocacy, and access when approaching issues on campus. Within UPUA, I proudly serve on both the Justice and Equity Committee and the Academic Affairs Committee, which has pushed me to emphasize initiatives centered on inclusive policy and meaningful change. For example, one of the initiatives I am most proud of that I have worked on within UPUA is the ‘Know Your Rights Cheat Sheet’ and the tabling of cards which informed students on what to do if detained.

As a Public Relations and International Politics major, I have been able to combine my studies with hands-on advocacy, community engagement, and student programming to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has a seat at the table.

I am also a member of the Presidential Leadership Academy, the Mexican American Student Association, and the Lion Caucus, where I work to empower the interests of the student body at Penn State.

My values that I seek to embody are access, accountability, and advocacy. This past year, I have been pushed to rapidly adapt and grow in order to help solve the complex issues that arise on campus. It is because of this that I am running for re-election to continue the work I have started to make sure that student concerns are heard, that resources are equitable, and that every student has the opportunity to thrive at Penn State.