Alfredo Espinosa, a 21-year-old junior building construction major at the University of Florida, is focusing on more than just mid-terms this semester.
Espinosa is a candidate for a seat on the District 4 City Commission.
The Delta Tau Delta Fraternity brother says he wants to bridge the gap between UF and the City of Gainesville, and one of his main campaign focuses is having the student population of Gainesville better represented in local government.
"My vision for the city commission that will represent represent the constituents and residents of Gainesville," said Espinosa."When you have 50,000 students+ it just makes you wonder why there isn't a bigger sense of student representation on a city level."
Espinosa is also focused on improving public safety, finding a solution for the biomass issue, lowering utility rates and establishing soft closes at local bars.
He blames the lack of focus on considering soft closes on the absence of students in the decision making process.
"I want to reengage our generation," he said. "There is a need for change."
He said there is a constant labor supply coming out of UF with graduating students, but Gainesville doesn't make it attractive to develop businesses and innovation. He want to draw money into Gainesville and attract startups.
Espinosa was born in Caracas, Venezuela and moved to the United States at age 5 to Westin, Fla. His hobbies include sports and motocross, but most of his time now is spent trying to meet other people and find out what their needs are.
"The most fun thing I've been doing is working on my campaign," he said.
Espinosa was previously a Preview staffer at UF, helping new students become familiar with the school.
Espinosa said he wants to give back to UF and the City of Gainesville. Despite being a young candidate, he said he has gotten a lot of positive responses from others.