Raina Saraiya – Treasurer

Raina+Saraiya+-+Treasurer

Why are you running for this position?

I genuinely feel like I can make a difference. Being treasurer is a big responsibility as you are in charge of all of the club’s monetary transactions. And with a club as prominent and profound as STUCO, one that has a large influence on the school and community through its actions, it is important that we are spending wisely and properly and are on top of all of our financial dealings and affairs.

What qualities do you have that make you stand out as a leader?

My creativity, willingness to take initiative and do the uncomfortable, ability to work with others, attention to details, and passion. I am not afraid to put my ideas out there, nor am I afraid to act upon them. I enjoy facing and overcoming challenges and I am willing to take risks. Further, I am constantly thinking of ways to develop, promote, enhance, and spread ideas. I don’t settle and I strive to make things the best they can be. Additionally, I am a very detail-oriented worker and make sure everything is planned out to the tee. Finally, I am a team player. I am always open to ideas and am able to accept when I am wrong but also speak up for when I am right.

If you win, what would you try to accomplish?

I will ensure that Student Council is spending money in a way that benefits the student and the community as a whole. I will also ensure that we are spending money in the most efficacious way possible so that we are minimizing expenses and maximizing returns. Lastly, I will ensure that all of our monetary transactions are recorded and kept well organized.

Who has provided the most positive influence on your development as a leader?

My grandfather. In India, my grandfather has a very prominent voice in his community. More importantly, however, he has a profound sense of determination. He sticks to a shrewd/rigorous schedule, one that allows him to continue practicing law at age 86.  Hence, he inspires me to work hard and to excel and do the best at whatever it is I do.

What’s one quote that has impacted your outlook on leadership and life?

“In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take” (Lewis Carroll). Quarantine was a really difficult time, but I got something important out of it in that it showed me how finite life is. It showed me that one day, in the blink of an eye, everything that we take for granted could go away. It has inspired me to take chances and pursue everything that makes me happy and is important to me, one of which is Student Council. Whether or not I get this position, I don’t want to regret not having tried. This quote also extends to my everyday activities, including school, and has inspired me to live life to the fullest and make the most of every day.