While the full-time, undergraduate student council of Kean University has already convened for the 2011-12 academic year, 13 crucial, student-seats are still unoccupied; but as September draws to an end, new leaders will take their place and serve as the fresh perspective among the group: the freshman class government.

From September 28, 9 a.m., until September 29, 6 p.m., the full-time freshman class will be able to cast their vote for one of the three freshman class president contenders: AishahSharjeelZwatschkaCougarLinkKeanGoogleCougarLink-shortcuts

Eligible freshman class students who are seeking opportunities to represent their class and serve on a board of representatives, with one of the three potential presidents in this article, may fill out an application for freshman class representative, since six spots are still open. The student organization of Kean University will be accepting these applications after the freshman class elections have come to an official close. To receive an application or to inquire about eligibility or role responsibilities, a student may visit the office of student organization in the University Center, room 321, or call 908-737-5190.

Aishah

If there was ever a freshman that was most positioned for higher education success, AishahNJIT

As a self proclaimed "quiet one", Muhammad has a repertoire that speaks for itself. This Newark, NJ, resident hails from Science Park High School -- a place where involvement opportunities are abundant. Muhammad was a member of the environmental club, the Science High newspaper, the school's literary magazine, as well as being an accomplished music student.

In addition, Muhammad is no stranger to balancing work with academics. Muhammad has worked on the staff of the St. Peter's Recreation Center as well as with Family and Children's Services; both located within her community.

When prompted to discuss her current stance on Kean issues, Muhammad stated that while she could push her views onto others, she is more readily prepared to advocate for the issues of her freshman class peers.

Running in student elections is not foreign ground for Muhammad; in fact, this Kean University election marks the third for the aspiring student leader. Despite her past losses, Muhammad says she will not enter this election with fear. As an independent candidate, she actually states she "looks forwards to working with the members [of other tickets]" -- a collaborative engagement difficult for many solo-running leaders. Involvement, above all, is Muhammad's driving force.

Sharjeel

In addition to heading the only formed running-ticket, Tai is also the only resident student among the presidential candidates. Common among candidates attuned to campus life issues, Tai says that one of the issues he is ready to tackle is the more controversial, and long-present onus of the main campus: the parking dilemma. Tai also wants the campus to be known outside its own walls for being a philanthropic entity, undertaking more community service and non-profit partnerships.

Tai says that he is willing to work with whoever wins the election, regardless if those students are not his own running mates. "I want to work with the best; and if someone wins, then they are just that -- the best," says Tai.

Chris Zwatschka

"I want help create and provide the entire campus experience," says president candidate, Chris ZwatschkaZwatschkaZwatschkawifi-connection

Similar to his presidential opponents, Zwatschka

As an independent candidate, ZwatschkaZwatschkaZwatschka

If faced with a loss, ZwatschkaZwatschka