Members of M State Student Government in Washington D.C. (M State)
Fergus Falls, MN – Three members of M State’s Student Government Association (SGA) recently served as Minnesota ambassadors attending the Today’s Students Coalition DC Summit.
Maxwell Fjeld, Andrea Race, and Samantha Koehn shared their stories with the legislative offices during the weeklong trip, advocating for the expansion of the Minnesota PSEO program, support for students facing food insecurity, and basic needs support. Fjeld highlights the importance of the PSEO Program in Fergus Falls, “I had two significant life-changing benefits with the PSEO program. First, it allowed me to get my associate’s degree free of cost from M State while attending High School at Minnesota Connections Academy. Second, it gave me the opportunity to find my career field, going from an interest in Computer Science to deciding on a career in Business Management. Changing majors in college is common, and can be a very expensive endeavor.”
During the week, the student leaders represented Fergus Falls, as well as Moorhead, Detroit Lakes, and Wadena campuses, highlighting the perspectives and stories of those from the Northern Greater Minnesota region. Race focused on supporting students facing food insecurity, highlighting the personal struggles she faced during her first attempt at college. Koehn highlighted the importance of basic needs support, especially for students struggling with mental health issues.
They lobbied at both Republican and Democratic offices. According to Fjeld, “They were all very receptive. Asking follow-up questions, taking notes, and making sure they fully understood our message.”
Fjeld also says, “It meant the world to us that we could be a voice for students in Greater Minnesota at such an important place. So many students in our community struggle with the high financial burdens of pursuing higher education. I believe that every individual should have the basic support needed for their educational journey.”
Race says, “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to refine my ability to share my story in a way that highlights the importance of supporting students’ basic needs and financial autonomy. Ensuring that impoverished students have a fair chance to succeed not only empowers individuals but also strengthens our nation’s infrastructure. With the right support, students can focus on contributing to society rather than struggling just to survive.”
Samantha says, “This experience of going to the summit in DC was an incredible opportunity. Being able to advocate and represent not only M State students but all technical and community 2-year college students was an amazing opportunity. Being able to share our stories to help push these legislators in the direction we’re hoping for. Overall this was an amazing experience and I’m glad I got to share it with these people.”
Since the students returned, they have had a reinvigorated passion for student advocacy and leadership. They are encouraging everyone to be civically engaged.
Story courtesy of the M State Student Government Association.
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