If you ask many children these days about what they want to be when they grow up, you would probably get many answers being: “I want to become a Senator.” Not knowing much of the implications, the duties and responsibilities that come with becoming one. Many of these kids are just frazzled by the thought of the limelight; That all the Senators do is speaking in public, or look good. Of course, these are not what Senators do. They were elected to be of service to their nation. These are the people who work hard not for themselves, but for the betterment of their people. Truly, becoming a Senator is no joke. But how to become a Senator anyway?
1. Basic Requirements
To be a Senator, you have to be at least 30 years old, be a citizen of the United States for at least 9 years prior to candidacy and be an inhabitant of the state you wish to represent. While there were candidates who were elected as Senators prior to turning 30, they were not allowed to take their oath until they reached the right age. Some examples include Joe Biden and Rush D. Holt Jr.
2. Study Hard, Be Involved And Lead.
As cliché as it may seem, studying hard, getting good grades and finishing college is still one of the best ways to fulfill your dream of becoming a Senator. There are many ways to get a scholarship if the problem lies in the lack of finances. You can try to get a scholarship, or a sponsor. Likewise, be involved in your community. How will you be able to understand your people if you do not know their concerns? You can start as young as possible, making sure you know the ins and outs of the community. Also, you can start creating your network when you know people who know people. Networking is very important in a politician’s life, as there are many possibilities that these people will bring you to the top. Your network may be your future campaign donors, and your most trusted allies. Be sure to take the initiative to lead. It doesn’t matter whether you do it In your school or at your community, or at least your thesis. By having leadership experience, you are saving yourself from the perils of being accused of an inexperienced leader. Having a solid career background outside of politics will help you earn the respect of your fellow Senators.
3. Earn Enough Experience.
While this is not a primary requirement, most Senators use the Congress as a training ground. Some of the Senators are former Governors or Mayors. Having a political background will enable you to have a broader view of the world of politics. This is also one of the reasons why the age requirement is 30 years old; the aspiring Senator should have held political or appointive office prior to their candidacy or at least been active in their parties before running.
4. Set A Good Example.
Maintain a good image but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to be dead serious at all times. Show the people you know how to have clean fun. But be sure to know and handle your responsibilities well. Always be the one who submits projects on times; Good image in school or with the people you interact with will give you the advantage when you run in the Senatorial race. Not only will your competitors have a hard time seeking a loophole in your personality.
5. Service, Above Self.
Make sure that when you are involved in your community, you are not only thinking about your future plans. Leadership, honesty, and service go hand in hand to satisfy your nation. Who knows, this might also be the key to winning your electoral party’s endorsement.
Remember, the United States’ Senate is consists of two Senators for each state in the union meaning, there are 100 Senators to be elected. These Senators serve the country for a period of 6 years, with one-third of the membership elected every 2 years.
About Author
Martin is a law student studying at a leading university in New Castle. He has a passion for blogging and writing resourceful articles on political views. He had read a great piece of article on how to become a senator and was inspired to write an article of his own on the same topic.
