Luke Roling is president of the Government of the Student Body and a senior in chemical engineering.

What is your favorite memory of college?

I will never forget the closing seconds of Iowa State’s 15-13 football win in 2007 over their heavily-favored rival, the Hawkeyes. The pure excitement from the moments of Phillip Bates snagging a wild throw from Bret Meyer, to Bret Culbertson’s field goal with seconds remaining, is unmatched by anything else I’ve experienced at Iowa State — and that’s saying something.

What is your favorite thing about Iowa State or Ames?

I love the big campus, small town combination. Since the Ames and ISU communities are roughly the same size, we have great opportunities for interaction and chances to work together that no other community has to offer. The city of Ames has a young, vibrant feel that I would like to call home for a long time.

Where is your favorite place to eat in town?

Hickory Park has always been my favorite, and never grows old. Jeff’s Pizza is a close second.

How was your freshman year?

I had a blast. My course load was a little light, so I used the opportunity of free time to jump into involvements with student organizations right from the start. I met some truly fantastic people, and have maintained many deep connections to this day. I’m even still living with all three of my roommates from my freshmen year.

What was the most embarrassing moment of your freshman year? Did you make any silly freshman mistakes?

Believe it or not, I was a much bolder individual during my freshman year than I am now in a few ways. I wasn’t embarrassed at all at the time, but looking back on the inaugural Cyclone Alley “Pinkout” game and remembering some of the looks I received from opposing players. I was decked out entirely in pink, including very short shorts, tights, shoes and nail polish. I’ve never been embarrassed to be a proud Cyclone fan, but that time may have pushed it a little close.

What advice would you give to incoming students?

There’s one thing you’ll find you have way too much of as you adjust to starting college: Time.

Rather than sit around your dorm room, use this newfound freedom to meet others around you and get involved through our more than 800 student organizations on campus. Use this time to make your unique mark on campus.

For instance, my roommate and I became known on the west side of campus as “The Kids Who Lofted Their Desks” after putting a few hours of spare time to work. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

How did you get where you are now in your career?

I have been able to rely heavily on the friendships and connections I have made from my first days at college to get me through all the obstacles that have arisen up to my senior year in college. I’ve been very lucky to have found great friends at college who are always honest and supportive when I need it most. Hard work and self-discipline are important, but having others makes the job a lot easier.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I love meeting and interacting with people, and this position allows me to do just that. Not only do I get to interact with administrators and legislators, but I also get to be directly tied in to the most important issues facing students. The most rewarding thing about this position, so far, has been the opportunities I’ve had to meet with others who are students just like me who have concerns and ideas for our university. I’m truly proud to be a leader of our Cyclone nation.

Describe your job. What are your duties?

I serve as the chief representative of the student body to the university, as well as city, state and federal governments. I am responsible for the oversight of all projects and affairs of GSB. I have the privilege to serve students on many university committees. I am responsible for setting the direction for “big-picture” initiatives undertaken by GSB.

What was your proudest accomplishment of the last year?

As soon as we took office in April, Vice President Nate Dobbels and I made it clear we were going to improve GSB’s connection to other student organizations. Though we’ve only been in office for a little more than three months, I’ve greatly enjoyed the success of our early efforts of our “Justice League” of councils, as well as our enhanced cooperation with the student body leadership of the University of Iowa and University of Northern Iowa. Watching these connections flourish has made me extremely proud to be a leader at Iowa State.

What is your biggest goal for next year?

I truly hope to improve communication and collaboration on all levels in the upcoming year. We have so many opportunities before us to work together as student organizations on the many great projects we accomplish every year. We also have great opportunities to work with other student governments and share ideas to make all our campuses better places. GSB will place a large emphasis this coming year on improving not only these collaborations but also day-to-day interactions with all students, the driving force behind the success of our university.

What do you think is the biggest issue currently facing students? What can we do about it?

Student debt remains a huge issue for students leaving Iowa State. Though we are slowly making progress, our graduating seniors graduate with debt loads among the highest in the nation. Our efforts to combat this will require cooperation from all fronts. GSB will be continuing our push with the state legislature for increased funding to universities, as well as bringing about enhanced financial literacy for students. It is a responsibility of all students to make sure we’re using our financial aid and other resources in a wise manner to avoid falling into the trap of high debt.

What are you most looking forward to in the next year?

From a student leader’s perspective, I’m most looking forward to the day-to-day workings of student government. I’ve always enjoyed the small things involved in the college experience and the day-to-day interactions I’ll be privileged to have with other students and university administrators will really help build to bigger things.

From a personal standpoint: 11/6 Home Football vs. Nebraska

What are your must-do and must-see things for students? What does a student have to do before they graduate? Before they finish their freshman year?

Attend at least one home football game to see Cyclone spirit at its finest. Campaniling under the Veishea or Homecoming fireworks. Find a spot, or two, on campus you can call your own.