By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University (SDSU) offers students various opportunities to develop leadership skills through over 250 student organizations. Among these, the Students’ Association plays a key role in representing student interests across campus.
At the forefront of this organization is Trinity Peterson, who serves as the president of the Students’ Association, the official student government at SDSU. Composed of elected student senators from different academic colleges, the association works to address student concerns and collaborate with university leadership.
Peterson, a senior from Willow Lake majoring in political science and agricultural leadership, leads weekly senate meetings and represents students in discussions with university administrators, local government, and state legislators. She believes the organization provides valuable opportunities for students to engage with influential leaders and advocate for their education.
“Our opportunities for our senators to meet people in state government are really unique,” said Peterson. “They get to meet a lot of really cool people who are really involved in the community and in the state.”
Peterson’s journey in student leadership began when she initially ran for a senate seat representing the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. Though she did not plan to take on a higher leadership role, encouragement from her peers guided her toward the presidency. Now in her second term, she continues to focus on making a positive impact.
Leading a student body presents challenges, and for Peterson, the most difficult aspect has been the slow pace of change.
“Accepting that sometimes is tough for me,” said Peterson. “But I think it's just taking things one step at a time and learning to take the small wins because they add up to big ones in the long run.”
Among her memorable experiences at SDSU, Peterson highlights Bum-A-Meal as her favorite tradition. This Hobo Day event allows students to enjoy a home-cooked meal with local community members, fostering strong connections.
While affordability initially drew her to SDSU, Peterson believes the welcoming environment and supportive people make the university truly special.
“Ever since my freshman year, I just knew this was my place for me,” said Peterson.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-university-extension
Categories: South Dakota, Education