At 12 years old, Adam Williams was already knocking on doors. But he wasn't selling candy bars or raising money for a school trip. Instead, he was canvassing for political candidates - collecting signatures, talking about candidates' positions on the issues, and putting up political signs. "I was kind of forced into it at first," he said, smiling, "but I ended up loving it."
Now a student at Onondaga Community College, Adam is involved in Student Government. He's this year's Chair of Communications, and he's working to bring that same energy to campus. He wants to start new clubs, host political events, and encourage his peers to get involved. "Politics and everyday life are directly connected," he said. "If you have a problem with the system, you have a responsibility to try and change it."
Williams is a native of Syracuse who was homeschooled along with his 6 siblings. One year ago, he enrolled at OCC in the Art program with a specialization in Media Communications and Design. "The campus is beautiful! I've seen other community colleges. Usually they're small and don't feel like a campus. This one does. And the amount of resources here for students who need help is incredible. They actively remove barriers to help students succeed in college."
What most may not know about Williams is his private battle with speaking in public. “I had a really bad stutter,” he says. “I used to spend hours talking to myself in the mirror, just practicing. I rehearsed how to stand, how to use my hands—everything—until I felt confident enough to speak. Practicing in the mirror showed me what I looked like when I talked and made me more comfortable.
Are you interested in getting more involved in campus life? Drop by the Student Government office and introduce yourself! The office is located on the first floor of the Gordon Student Center, next to the Lazer Lounge, in room G114.
