An interactive guide to getting involved in UW politics

How politically involved are you?

Photo by Richard Hurd

An easy guide to getting active around Madison and on campus

**Click the arrow button next to the answer that best suits you **

If you chose A...

It sounds like you’re already more involved than most people! Let’s look at a few student organizations that might be a good fit for you!

• Associated Students of Madison (ASM): the official student governing body on campus and can help you connect with other passionate students on campus, as well as resources to turn your own passions into a real adovcacy platform
• Learn More: https://asm.wisc.edu/

• Think about what you're most passionate about: Chances are, an organization already exists. Check out one of the 207 orgs that pop up under advocacy, activism and political interesy filters
• Learn more: https://win.wisc.edu/organizations?categories=10877&categories=10878

If you chose B...

It's great you feel like you already know some stuff about politics! Maybe it's time to push yourself to learn a little more

Here are a few simple ways to get you a little more involved with our local politics :

• Keep track of all elections- local and national. Find your voting poll and research candidates to find out who best aligns with the changes you want made.
• Find out more at the Dane County elections page

• Know your representatives- if you live on campus, you are most likely in District 8. Reach out to your city councilor with any concerns you may have, they are always eager to hear from constituents
• Think about getting involved with an organization like Associated Students of Madison (ASM). ASM is home to UW-Madison's student council, and even if you're not quite ready to make a commitment in a permanent position, attend a student counil or open commitee meeting!

If you chose C or D...

There's no shame in not knowing. In fact, you're in the majority of students who most likely chose one of these two answers.

You're probably more aware of local political happenings than you know. Let's help you put some of your beliefs into actions.

1. Think about your daily life. Do you often find things around campus that bug you? Maybe your bus always comes late, you can't get a timely appointment with UHS or you're struggling to find an apartment that you can afford- These are all political conerns!
2. Talk to other students. If something's on your mind, it's probably on someone else's too!
3. Take it a step further- Reach out to your city or student representatives. There are plenty of people who are eager to listen to your opinions and advocate for them.
1. Learn more by visiting one of these resources:

Wisconsin Shared Governance

It is written into Wisconsin's legislation that students are required to have an active roll in state and municipal government. The state doesn't just allow you to get involved, it encourages and even requires it. Know your political rights- your voice as a student matters.

Photo from: https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/politics/2023/06/28/bill-authors-sought-to-apply-uw-admissions-guarantee-nationally/70365146007/