The Associated Students of New Mexico State University have opened the application for the upcoming senate election.

A total of 15 senatorial positions will be available for the spring semester.

Students can access the packet at the ASNMSU website.

Candidates must submit their packet by Wednesday Oct. 10 no later than 5 p.m.

The packet includes the rules for candidates in regards to campaigning as well as instructions for submitting an application.

Linda Cisneros, Vice President of ASNMSU, recommends that any student interested in running for senate should apply.

“This is a great way to make a positive impact on the community, on their peers and it’s a great way to gain more experience,” Cisneros said.

Cisneros also said she believes students who already serve in senate should apply again to maintain a history with other members of senate.

“We have our senior senators teach the new senators,” Cisneros said.

The vice president said that students should run in order to have a voice in what goes on at NMSU, and an important part of that is student fees.

“Every single student pays into [fees] and it’s a really good way to have a say in how that should be distributed,” Cisneros said.

Ana Stephanie Maldonado, a senator for the College of Arts and Sciences, said that serving in senate has been one of her favorite activities since attending NMSU.

“I absolutely adore and I’m amazed by all these organizations and what they’re doing,” Maldonado said.

Maldonado said it’s remarkable to be able to support student organizations as a senator.

Maldonado said some advice she has to offer students who may be thinking about running for senate is educating themselves about organizations at NMSU. She said it is important to be familiar with the ASNMU law book and student government as well.

She said getting to know organizations is not only important for writing bills, but getting to know them will also benefit students in getting elected.

“Be available for any constituent that may come.” Maldonado said.

The following senate seats are available:

Agriculture, Consumer & Environmental Sciences:    1

Arts and Sciences:                                                               5

Business:                                                                               1

Education:                                                                            2

Engineering:                                                                        2

Graduate:                                                                              3

Health and Social Services:                                               1

Campaigning will begin Oct. 15 at 8 a.m. and elections begin Monday, Oct. 22. Voting will continue for a 24 hour period at all computer labs through Friday, Oct. 26 until 5 p.m.

Senators serve for a one-year term.