“Down to earth, very compassionate, good listener, do my best to make a difference- cheesy I know,” said D.J. Close, a newly elected freshman senator when asked what he thought DU students should know about him.

Running for freshmen senator was a natural choice for Close because of his experience in student government in high school.

“I was class president all four years in high school,” said Close who is from Durango.

Coming to DU was also an easy made choice for Close.

“I wanted to be far enough away from home to explore but close enough to go back if something happened,” said Close. “I walked on campus and seemed to be a good fit. My parents liked it and my grandmother went here too.”

His plans for Senate are to first observe and then take a more active role. And while his platform was along the lines of “work hard and play hard” he is willing to help tackle two of the more pressing issues facing senate- diversity and communication with students.

He already has ideas on how to help improve AUSA Senate in both areas.

“Just pull off some crazy fun events. Students will see senators out having fun and they will be more approachable,” said Close.

He cited the Senate meeting dress code as intimidating for students coming in to meetings.

He also has ideas on how to get students more involved in fishbowl discussions on how to improve diversity on campus beyond just talking about the issues, which, he thinks, is one of the biggest challenges.

“Starting to talk about it [diversity] begins the transition,” he said. “You have to get they interested in the issue first. Talk to them individually, go to classes, get other clubs involved and classes can make it part of their regular discussion. Hopefully, people will be inspired to get involved.”

Freshman year thus far has been smooth sailing for Close.

“So far everyone is really helpful. When people are friendly then good things happen,” finished Close.