There are 34 positions open on various Ames boards and commissions, and applications are due Friday. This is another opportunity for ISU students to get involved and be leaders in their community.Students make up half of the Ames population, and over half of the 18-and-over population. Considering how large the student population is, there are amazingly few students who are involved in the Ames city government. Students could have a significant impact on the Ames community by just getting involved.Serving on a board or commission can give students great real-world experience and leadership skills. These positions deal with real issues that may impact the entire community.There are many other ways students can get involved in the community. Government of the Student Body elections take place on March 6 and 7, and there are still several positions open. Although it’s too late to run, it is always possible to be appointed to one of the open seats and get involved in student government that way.Veishea also presents a great on-campus leadership opportunity. Students can apply for Veishea committee positions, which will be decided in April.There are hundreds of clubs and organizations on campus, both educational and recreational. Even going to a meeting of your major’s club is a good place to start.If making a difference in the community isn’t enough incentive to get involved, remember that a leadership position is great to put on a resume. Employers and scholarship committees look for people who weren’t afraid to get out in their community and get involved.One person can make a difference, but not if you don’t try.editorialboard: Carrie Tett, Greg Jerrett, Katie Goldsmith, Andrea Hauser, Jocelyn Marcus and Tim Paluch