ASU Tempe campus student body president graduates with triple major

Editor's note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2021 graduates.

When Chandler, Arizona, native Jacqueline Palmer started at ASU, she didn’t know college had student government. This month, she graduated as student body president of the Tempe campus, on top of her triple major in digital marketing, political science and business law with a certificate in international studies.

Palmer has been involved in Undergraduate Student Government for four years and spent her last year serving as president of the Tempe campus’s USG. She said she’s most proud of pushing for inclusivity on campus, including working with the Council of Coalitions to ask ASU President Michael Crow to move forward with a multicultural center and to improve gender-inclusive housing. 

“I have spent the last four years in USG, where I have been able to meet my best friends, become a leader, learn how to put others first and create change to better ASU for all students,” she said. 

As the President’s New American Scholarship and Student Government Scholarship recipient prepared to graduate, she reflected on her time at ASU and shared advice for students. 

Question: What was your “aha” moment ,when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?

Answer: When I was running for my campaign I learned I am truly passionate about helping others and marketing politics. It made me realize I would love to work (public relations) for a politician or something of the sort. 

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

A: I learned that everyone comes from a different place of struggle, and no matter the magnitude it does not invalidate their lived experiences. ASU has such a diverse population of students that I learn something new every day. 

Q: Why did you choose ASU?

A: It was close to my family and offered a lot of opportunity for my education. 

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: Don’t be hard on yourself; life has a funny way of always working out. 

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life? 

A: The Student Pavilion! I eat, chat and work here with my friends. 

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: I am not decided yet but hopefully attending law school. 

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: I would put it toward an innovative sustainability program to help heal our Earth.