President Madison by Madison

President Madison by Madison - December 2025 Scholarship Essay

Too often, students walk through the halls without ever feeling like their opinions matter or that they have a real influence on what happens in their own school. I believe a school becomes stronger when students know they have a voice when their ideas are welcomed, their concerns are taken seriously, and their perspectives are part of the decision-making process.
When I ran for student body president previously, one of the things I enjoyed most was finding creative ways to connect with people. I handed out cookies not just because they were tasty, but because they served as a friendly gesture, a way of saying, “Hey, I see you, and I want to hear from you.” I attached that small treat to a bigger message your voice matters. I wanted to make my campaign feel approachable and to show students that leadership doesn’t have to be distant or formal. It can be warm, welcoming, and genuinely interested in the people it hopes to represent.
If I were running again, I would build on that same idea, but take it much further. My main goal would be to create real systems that make student voices an everyday part of school life—not just something that appears during elections or big decisions. One idea I would introduce is a “Student Voices Forum,” held once a month during lunch or an advisory period. This would be an open, casual gathering where any student could come and share ideas or concerns. It wouldn’t be a lecture or a meeting where only a few people talk; it would be a space where everyone’s input is equally welcomed. Whether someone wanted to suggest a new club, talk about school lunches, raise mental-health concerns, or recommend changes to school events, this forum would give them the chance to speak up.
In addition, I would set up anonymous feedback boxes in different parts of the school and a digital version for students who prefer writing their ideas privately. Some people feel uncomfortable speaking in front of others, and that’s perfectly okay. Having multiple ways to communicate ensures that every student not just the outspoken or confident ones can contribute. To show that this feedback is taken seriously, I would provide monthly updates summarizing common suggestions and explaining what steps are being taken to address them. This way, students can see the direct impact of their voice.
Another major part of my plan would be improving communication between students and the administration. Many students feel disconnected from the decisions adults make because they rarely hear the why behind those choices. As student body president, I would advocate for more transparency. I would work with teachers and administrators to create short, regular announcements or newsletters explaining upcoming changes, events, or policies and I would make sure to include student perspectives in those messages. When students understand what’s happening and why, they feel more respected and involved.
But creating a school where everyone feels heard isn’t just about collecting ideas it’s about building trust. To do that, I would make myself consistently available and approachable. Whether that means having a weekly “open door lunch,” where anyone can stop by to talk, or simply making an effort to speak with students in different grades and groups, I would work to show that leadership is about people, not titles. The small moments listening to someone’s