TCNJ

30 The College of New Jersey Magazine Freddie Hayeck '22 Councilman, Watchung Borough, New Jersey Freddie Hayeck '22 Idly poking around his school district's website while procrasti- nating on his homework one night his senior year of high school, Freddie Hayeck learned of an upcoming elec- tion for an open school board seat. So he decided to run for it, and won, just days after his 18th birthday, becoming the youngest-ever electee in New Jersey history. But it wasn't as impulsive as that. In fact, Hayeck appears lab-designed for involvement. As an Eagle Scout, he'd participated in American Legion Boys State, and was president of his class at the time of his election. He also was, and still is, a volunteer firefighter and first aid squad member. "As far as my personal brand, I would say that service has always been a part of my life," he says. In early spring 2022, Hayeck was wrapping up his studies as a business administration major, completing his 300-hour commitment to AmeriCorps, working full time at a Trenton lobbying firm, responding to fire alarms and accident calls, and attending meetings of the Watchung Borough council, to which he was elected in 2020. Did we mention that? Hayeck admits there was a moment when he was tempted "to just stop being involved in or follow politics" because of the rancor at the national level. But he says he instead felt even more drawn to local government because of its ability to actually solve problems. "When you're talking about where to put a recycled book drop-off, or what type of trees we're going to plant, or looking for grant monies to help address environmental issues, that's all that matters," he says. "We're just talking about the issues." Adriana Yunes '22 Outreach aide for Assemblywoman Sadaf Jaffer Why she serves: I grew up in Newark, where education is disproportionately funded compared to other New Jersey districts. I want to help communities where people face significant obstacles. Taking cues: I learned from Assemblywoman Jaffer the importance of having diverse voices in these spaces. Daniel Hurley '19 Intern, U.S. Department of State Good day on the Hill: Prepared materials for Secretary of State Antony Blinken to use in a meeting. Briefing room: People have the power to change what they do not like about government. Skepticism should fuel engagement with government, not disengagement.

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