AAS Candidate Statements for Class of 2029 Vacant Seat

Candidates for the Class of 2029 Vacant Seat for the Association of Amherst Students’ Senate elections have submitted their statements.

The students below have announced their candidacies for these elections. All candidates are listed by position, then alphabetically by last name. If a statement ends in ellipses, it is because it has been cut off to fit the 100 word limit.

One Vacancy, Four Candidates

Sam Chua ’29

I want to pursue these projects in order of feasibility, starting with those that can be implemented most quickly and progressing toward those that may require more time and resources. My proposed plan is:

  1. Expand access to menstrual products and provide higher-quality options
  2. Make to-go boxes and utensils universally available to all students
  3. Provide free streaming services in common rooms across each residence hall
  4. Offer free or discounted summer storage options for students

Vote for me to see real action, not just empty promises. Let’s cha cha together ~ Sam Cha

Erini Fruean ’29

My name is Nini Fruean, a proud Kiwi from New Zealand, and a prospective Political Science and Education Studies major. Growing up, my dad taught me ‘O le ala i le pule o le tautua’, the pathway to leadership is through service. At Amherst, true leadership isn't about being in the "know"; it's about building genuine connections. I’m running for Senate to ensure every student feels heard. From expanding FLI resources to advocating for longer Ford Student Center hours and fostering Community events, I’ll only make promises I can honor. Let’s bridge the gap together. Vote Nini Fruean for Senate! 

Ido Kirson ’29

Personal letter and postcard sending is down 48% since 2015. We receive mail (bills, marketing, etc.) at a far higher rate than we send it. We’re losing meaningful forms of interpersonal connection, and I’m running to work to restore them. Letters matter a lot to me because they make us think beyond the short-form interaction that has become commonplace. I’ll work on an intercollegiate penpal program where you are matched with a college student, share about your life, and learn about theirs. To help me restore this beautiful form of correspondence, vote Ido for AAS!

Brian Yu ’29

"Brightness is what I live by. I believe Amherst should, too.
I taught English after-school to elementary schoolers. I went door to door for a politician whose cause I believed in.

I do everything with warmth, because where would we be without each other?

I want to assist you in making Amherst a better place. Whether it’s bringing back Valpact where two strangers can bond over a meal, or keeping a directory of all volunteer opportunities in and around town, we all have so much to give, and that's only the beginning.

Let’s make it brighter with Brian!"