Building Community Through Campus Involvement: Aidan Gomez '29

For Aidan Gomez, getting involved at Westfield State University transformed his college experience. A History Secondary Education major in the Class of 2029 and a lifelong Westfield resident, Gomez quickly found his place on campus through two organizations that have become central to his student experience: the Campus Activities Board (CAB) and the Student Government Association (SGA).

A commitment to involvement has been a consistent theme throughout Gomez's life. From serving on student councils and advisory boards during middle and high school to helping organize community events through his culinary arts program, he always enjoyed being part of something bigger than himself. When he arrived at Westfield State, however, he initially struggled to step outside his comfort zone.

"I was nervous to introduce myself to people and put myself out there," Gomez said. "But I realized you'll have an amazing freshman year if you push yourself to get involved."

That decision led him to CAB and SGA, two organizations that allowed him to pursue his passions for event planning, leadership, and service.

Through CAB, Gomez discovered an outlet for his love of creating memorable experiences. One of his favorite memories came during the Spring Concert, where he worked closely with performers MKTO and Carmen Dianne throughout the day.  Aiden helped coordinate logistics and prepare backstage spaces, but created a memorable connection with Dianne  shared her appreciation for a rhinestone cowboy hat Aiden got for her, and left a personal note for him at the end of the night.

While the concert was a highlight, Gomez says the camaraderie among CAB members made the biggest impact.

"We spent the entire day together, working toward the same goal," he said. "That sense of community and teamwork is what I'll remember most."

In SGA, Gomez found an opportunity to advocate for students and help shape campus life. He credits the organization with reigniting his interest in public service and giving him a platform to represent his peers.

Some of his favorite memories came not from major events, but from spending time with fellow student leaders after meetings, sharing conversations, ideas, and friendships that grew from a shared commitment to improving the student experience.

“Sitting around the couches in the SGA room, we all found common interests in that conversation. It ranged from video games to memes to TikToks, but most importantly, SGA was what really bound us together” he shared.

Looking ahead, Gomez has ambitious goals for the upcoming academic year. As a student leader, he hopes to increase student engagement by improving communication, strengthening partnerships across campus, and encouraging students to take advantage of the many opportunities available both at Westfield State and throughout the city of Westfield.

His vision includes stronger outreach from SGA, increased collaboration with CAB, more volunteer opportunities, and new partnerships with local businesses that help students feel connected to both the university and the broader community.

Above all, Gomez wants students to know there is a place for everyone at Westfield State.

"Whether it's a club, your academic department, an on-campus job, or another organization, there's a community here for everyone," he said. "Once you find that community, it can stay with you throughout your entire college experience."

For Gomez, involvement is more than participation. It's about creating connections, building community, and helping make Westfield State a place where every student feels they belong.