By Sydney Race
Grand Rapids Community College has hosted seven events this semester with the hope of bringing students together, and Campus Activities Board President Brayden Smith is to thank. As he enters his third year at GRCC and his second year as CAB president, Smith continues to work hard to organize and provide students with an enriching college experience.
“That’s what we’re all about is bringing students together,” Smith said. “I know a lot of people, whether they’re coming straight out of high school or they’re going back into pursuing a degree, getting that sense of support and also trying to see if they can make new connections with people, new friends. We’re all about that.”
In the past, Smith helped out as a volunteer at campus activity events. He has dedicated his college career to providing the best experience for students and the community.
Since becoming CAB President, Smith has learned valuable lessons in networking, career opportunities and student life. Most importantly, he’s learned to become a leader to support his team and students.
“My leadership style, I’m always about making sure everyone is enjoying their time here because I mean, it is optional,” Smith said. “It’s not an official job. So, I want to make sure everyone’s having fun, making sure if they need anything I can provide it for them, and leading a great team.”
From setting up tables to organizing who sits at them, Smith enjoys what he does as an important student leader on GRCC’s campus as his work greatly benefits the students who participate.
“I never thought I’d be doing the stuff that I’d be doing,” Smith said. “I was very glad that I took the opportunity and I conquered my anxiety and walked into that first meeting with people I didn’t know because here I am now.”
Allysa Gamez, CAB adviser, pointed to Smith as a capable leader who has brought many new and exciting ideas to campus.
“Brayden is one of a kind! Not only does he have great character, but he has elevated CAB to an entirely new level by hosting events never before seen on campus like the Fall Festival and Campus Escape Rooms,” Gamez stated in an email to The Collegiate. “…He is dedicated to building community with students and he works hard to make it happen.”
Smith is a mechanical engineering turned network administration major who understands and recognizes the struggles that come with the workload. That’s why, to him, it’s all about creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, occasionally cracking a joke to lighten the mood.
After GRCC, Smith plans to transfer to Davenport University to continue his education and see what he has to offer to their CAB, as it’s something he enjoys being a part of.
“The biggest thing that I’ve been able to gain and definitely bring with me is the leadership that I’ve done and taking that with me because you learn how to effectively communicate with your team and lead your team…” Smith said. “I feel like I’m going to bring that with me and that’s good… probably for any career.”
For students wanting to make a difference on campus or simply attend an event, there are bulletin boards scattered around campus with information that lists details and available resources. Students can also view the events on Raider Connect.
Additionally, students have the option of attending joint town hall meetings between CAB and Student Government hosted every second Wednesday of the month to learn more about GRCC and ask questions.
Smith has many opportunities lined up to better the community at GRCC. With each event that’s held, he works hard to organize the best experience possible for students and help them form their own connections by inviting them to attend campus events.
“It’s a commuter college, and I feel like it can be more,” Smith said. “I definitely think (that)’s one of our goals for CAB is to change. You don’t have to go to school and go home. You know, we’ve got stuff going on, and we’re trying different things to make it work in student schedules. And of course, we’re always looking for feedback.”
Collegiate Editor-in-Chief Alexa Cheaney contributed to this story.
