State Rep. talks political involvement on campus, Lansing


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Emily Mesner | Staff Photographer State representative Kevin Cotter speaks to the Central Michigan University College Republicans group Wednesday in Anspach 169.

State Representative Kevin Cotter (R -- 99th district) told Central Michigan University students Wednesday evening that they can do more than cast a vote to get involved in the political process. 

From internships to volunteering for campaigns, Cotter said there are opportunities for everyone at every step in the process. Cotter spoke to the College Republicans Wednesday night in Anspach Hall. 

“The capitol city internship program is a great opportunity for students because there are so many internship opportunities in Lansing through legislative offices and the governors office," Cotter told the College Republicans.

Cotter also discussed ways in which his office has been able to help CMU graduates seeking employment who have been a part of the Capitol City Internship program.

“We have helped several CMU graduates that interned with us by putting them in contact with other offices”, Cotter said.

Cotter, a CMU graduate who majored in entrepreneurship and minored in business administration, began his involvement with College Republicans during his first campaign in 2010 for the state house. Cotter’s relationship with the RSO was beneficial to his campaign.

“After the meeting I was approached by attendees and hired campaign managers,” Cotter said. “All three of my campaign managers have been from College Republicans."  

The registered student organization brought the local representative to also discuss his campaign for the Nov. 2014 election.

“With elections coming up, we thought it was a good idea to bring him in to talk about his background," said Anna Preilipp, vice president of CMU College Republicans and a Britton sophomore.

Having Cotter speak also gives students opportunities to find out how they can be politically involved.

“I thought Representative Cotter would be a good person to come in to tell people how they can get involved in local and state campaigns," said Ottorino Schincariol, president of CMU College Republicans and a Paw Paw sophomore.

Prielipp also discussed benefits for students involved with College Republicans.

“College Republicans is a great way to volunteer and network," Prielipp said "There’s a lot of internship opportunities as well and it’s a great way to meet new people with similar interests."

Schincariol mentioned new friendships as a benefit to becoming involved with College Republicans.

“You’re gonna meet new friends, become active on campus and in Mt. Pleasant, and have fun all while doing it”, Schincariol said.

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