Blazer Answers is a tool for the student body, faculty, or any observer to submit questions, comments, or suggestions to the Undergraduate Student Government Association. This platform is an excellent way to get your voice heard so that USGA can make changes that improve your experience at UAB! Your feedback is invaluable, as it allows USGA to assess and act on issues that are especially pertinent to the student body.
To submit a response, you can log in with your BlazerID, sign in as a guest using any email address, or submit your response anonymously. All submissions will be reviewed, and our team will respond to you within a timely manner.
Please note that anonymous submissions will not receive any direct response, but will be reviewed like all other responses.
Responses to anonymous submissions:
- Re-entry and commuter students: There will be indoor spaces available for between your classes. Please reference UAB IT’s Safe Study Spaces website for live occupancy rates of campus buildings. More locations will be added shortly!
- Re-entry and the SHOW campaign: The SHOW messaging campaign was created after collecting over 600 student responses. Messaging was selected based on what resonated with UAB students. The campaign will also be providing masks, apparel, and other merchandise to promote the following of safety guidelines.
- Other concerns: Other student concerns that we have received will be directed to the proper USGA divisions and committees. For individual responses, make sure to leave your BlazerID! Topics included:
- Transfer student resources
- Better promotion of USGA elections
- Pre-health advising
- Commencement options
USGA appreciates the student submissions we have received thus far. If you have any concerns, don’t forget that the link to our anonymous submission box is in our bio!
Freshman Forum is a cornerstone program within the Undergraduate Student Government Association (USGA) that is dedicated to empowering first-year students to find their voice, sharpen their leadership skills, and begin making a meaningful impact on campus from the very start of their college journey. This organization serves as an entry point into student government, giving freshmen the opportunity to not only observe but actively participate in the processes that shape student life at UAB. By becoming a part of Freshman Forum, students are introduced to the values of collaboration, advocacy, and innovation that define USGA, and they are encouraged to begin building the foundation for long-term involvement in leadership.
The program is designed to help members develop a wide range of transferable skills that will benefit them far beyond their freshman year. Through hands-on projects, workshops, and mentorship from experienced student leaders, participants learn how to identify issues on campus, generate creative and realistic solutions, and work with peers from diverse backgrounds to find common ground. They also receive training in public speaking, professional etiquette, event planning, and networking, equipping them with tools that are valuable in any professional or academic setting.
Freshman Forum emphasizes the importance of building relationships—not only within the group but across the broader UAB community. Members have the chance to collaborate with leaders from other student organizations, attend USGA Senate meetings, and engage directly with administrators on key topics affecting students. In this way, they are able to see firsthand how student voices can influence change at an institutional level. The program also fosters a strong sense of community among participants, providing a supportive environment where freshmen can learn from one another, grow in confidence, and explore their passions.
Meet the 2025-2026 Directors:
Sydney Testman
Co-Director
My name is Sydney Testman. I am a senior majoring in Political Science and am concurrently pursuing a Masters in Public Administration. Prior to serving in the role as Freshman Forum Co-Director, I was the Executive Vice President. Outside of USGA, I work as a graduate teaching assistant and am an active member of my sorority, functioning as the Treasurer for Iota Phi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
Darrius Bushe
Co-Director
My name is Darrius Bushe, and I am a senior majoring in Neuroscience with a minor in Chemistry while also pursuing a Master of Public Health in Health Behavior. I am from Mobile, Alabama, where growing up in a single-parent, low-income household inspired my passion for advocacy and resilience. As a Co-Director of Freshman Forum, I am excited to help new students develop as leaders and use their passions to create positive change.
Samanvi Vootukuri
Co-Director
My name is Samanvi Vootukuri, and I am a senior studying Neuroscience and am completing an accelerated bachelor’s to master’s in Business Administration. At UAB, I’ve been involved in TrailBlazers, Hindu YUVA, and Future Blazers Alumni, which connected me to campus and the Birmingham community. As a former Freshman Forum member, I am excited to now serve as Co-Director. I am thrilled to mentor students and help them grow as leaders.
Our Mission
USGA aims to represent the undergraduate student body by advocating for student interests and empowering the student voice. Now in its 55th administration, we provide opportunities to influence both their academic and social experiences at UAB. In order to accomplish our mission, USGA leaders work closely with faculty and administration to propel both short- and long-term student goals. In addition to policy work, USGA works on services, programs, and funds distribution to student organizations in order to develop and foster a more collaborative UAB community.
Announcements
Learn about some of our most recent initiatives and programs below!
Want to learn what our funding structure looks like?
Learn more about our budget and previous USGA budgets HERE!
Want to learn more?
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