This afternoon, I had the opportunity to sit down with Student Body President candidate, Jason Simank. Jason is a first generation Aggie, and an Industrial Distribution major. Throughout the interview (which felt more like a friendly conversation than an interview), I was able to get to know Jason a little bit more. His love for the University came through in his answers, and his approachable demeanor was genuine. Today, I was able to match a personality to the campaign slogan, “Bank on Simank.” In my opinion, Jason is an excellent candidate to consider when voting for Student Body President.
1. When did you know you wanted to go to A&M?
“It wasn’t until the spring semester of my freshman year. I originally planned on going to the US Naval Academy. It wasn't until I really started getting involved in organizations such as Big Event, rushing, and getting involved in my fraternity -- really allowing myself to get involved with the University and put myself out there that I really figured out that this was it. A&M was the place I am meant to be. I had set all these plans where I pictured where I was going to be, and what I thought would be the best fit, but this is it.”
2. What has been your favorite memory since starting school?
“That’s hard because there’s been a lot! One thing that I will take away from college and this experience are all of all the friendships that I’ve made and how unique they’ve been, and how supportive they’ve been. The people here are just so genuine and cut from a different branch.”
3. What is your go-to Starbucks order?
“You know what, I kinda just like black coffee.”
4. If you were a superhero, who would you be, and why?
“It would probably be Batman, just because he doesn't have any real super powers. He’s just an average guy who decided to become a hero.”
5. Do you have a celebrity crush?
“Yes. Jennifer Aniston without a doubt.”
6. It’s 8:00 on a Tuesday night. What are you most likely doing?
“Hanging out with roommates, probably. Or ordering pizza rolls from Gumby’s. Seventy-five cent pizza rolls are where it’s at."
7. On a scale of a longhorn to a yell leader, how redass are you?
“Yell leader."
8. In your opinion, what has been the best thing that a previous student body president has done for A&M or the community?
“The best thing that I’ve seen has been this outcry in response to the events that happened this past February to the students touring this campus. I think that the letter writing for those students and the stance that we took on it, letting people know that this wasn’t acceptable, and this isn’t what A&M stands for; that was super inspiring."
9. What is the best piece of advice you could give an incoming freshman?
“Branch out. Get involved. Get to know this University, and really dive into it, and allow yourself to experience things outside of class."
10. What is your best pick-up line?
“Are you a parking ticket? Because you have fine written all over you.”
11. What is your Favorite A&M tradition?
“Aggie Muster. One of my good friends whom I interned with this past summer had a dad who was honored in muster. And it was a really cool getting to attend that event in honor of his dad and the other Aggies being remembered that day. It became personal at that point when I was able to be there for my friend.”
12. Describe yourself in 3 words.
“Loyal, passionate, and lighthearted.”
13. What is your favorite part of Aggie game day?
“Tailgating is the best part; without a doubt. My two roommates run into my room and wake me up at like seven o’clock, and shake me awake (laughs). We throw on game day polos, and head out to the tailgates; we start barbecuing out there. Those are memories that will last a lifetime, for sure.”
14. Any hidden talents?
“I would say I’m pretty good dancer. But I’m going to have to put that to the test now, I’m sure.”
15. What is the first thing you would do if elected president?
“The first thing I would do is work to lower speed limit on University Drive, specifically in the North Gate area, because of the students that passed away last semester. The other thing I would do is just get to know the student body. Go around, shake hands, meet new people, check in with other organizations; make it personal.”
Voting begins Thursday, February 25th and ends Friday, February 26th. Vote at vote.tamu.edu.
For more information on Jason Simank and his campaign for SBP visit bankonsimank.com.
