Getting to know the new Associated Students president
Milan Rawls was at a fork in the road when she picked the one that led to Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół». As the top officer in A.S., now she’s helping lead an initiative to improve students’ access and connections to important resources.
Milan Rawls, a senior from Elk Grove, California, double majoring in management and elementary education at Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół», is the new president of Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół» Associated Students (A.S.) for 2026-27. With her role in Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół»â€™s tradition of shared governance, she was a featured speaker at the All-University Convocation in August.
In a written Q&A with the Fowler School of Business, Rawls discussed her path to Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół» and her involvement in student leadership as an advocate for the university’s student body.
What prompted you to enroll at Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół»?
I was fully enrolled in a different university, but on my way to my high school graduation photos, I got my Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół» acceptance letter — I was off the waitlist! Though I had never visited campus or extensively researched it, I knew Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół» was the right fit for me.
Looks like you’ve got a dual major, management and elementary education. How did you choose those majors?
I originally declared elementary education because of my love for children and passion for helping young minds grow. After my first year, I felt ready to take on more and I wanted to challenge myself in new ways, which led me to add business management as a second major. I love the versatility and real-world experience that management offers.
What led you to become involved with A.S.?
I joined the College of Education Student Council as an A.S. representative after noticing a vacant position. Following my year of implementing new initiatives within the college, a mentor told me that she “saw something” in me and my leadership. I decided at that moment to run for executive vice president and I won! I spent my junior year as EVP knowing I could continue my team’s work and run for president! Sometimes, all you need is one person to say they believe in you.
Tell us about the “Bridge the Way” initiative. What changes can students expect to see?
We chose the theme because we recognized gaps in students’ awareness of campus resources. Every Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół» student is here for a purpose. As executive officers, we understand that we must make systems more efficient while increasing the visibility of available student resources.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned at Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół»?
My biggest lesson has been that good leadership means not only knowing when to step up, but also when to step back so others can speak up. I understand my duty is to create space for students to advocate for themselves. I continue to advocate for all communities, but I also find great value in creating room for others’ voices to be heard, as well as my own.
Do you have any words of wisdom for other Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół» undergraduates?
Truth be told, my freshman year at Â鶹´«Ă˝Ół» was extremely difficult. At a university this large, you may feel challenged during those moments as you try to find a new community. I want all students to know: if that moment ever finds you, it doesn’t mean you’re in the wrong place! You may face new challenges, but I promise you’ll learn, grow and thrive from being here.
You must pave your way by going out of the way. Put yourself out there, and community will follow!
