On Jan. 18, the College Republicans of Oakland University hosted a luncheon with special guest Peter J. Lucido, the Prosecutor of Macomb County. While at the luncheon, students asked questions and had a meaningful conversation with Lucido. Several of the members of the club hope to break into politics or government work, so getting first-hand information from an experienced politician served as inspiration.
Lucido spoke about the importance of his time shadowing and interning at a young age. When Lucido was an undergraduate student at OU, he spent time interning in the legal field. While at the luncheon, he spoke about the importance of his shadowing experience.
“Oakland also gave me a chance to work off campus as a probation officer where I had a chance to learn about the law,” Lucido said. “That was the closest thing I could get to law school before I spent all my time, all my money, and all my energy. So I went and took that opportunity.
“I got in my car and drove off the campus and drove to 1200 North Telegraph. I went in and said I’d like to be a probation officer. It was because I could speak in a courtroom. It was because I could engage with the president of the accused and then the convicted. I could also learn how judges treat people in society. That’s the experience I had that solidified while I went to law school,” Lucido added.
While at the luncheon, Michigan Freedom Fund (MFF) visitors spoke about the organization. The MFF fights to champion conservative principles on behalf of Michigan taxpayers. Limited government, increased government transparency and constitutional protections are some of the prominent values of the organization. The nonprofit organization is run by Michiganders, catalyzing a grassroots movement.
“I’m an Oakland alum, graduated in April, and I’m now involved with the Michigan Freedom Fund. So we’re a conservative advocacy organization, working in the State House districts around the state. So if you guys are looking for opportunities to get involved in State House campaigns, or the extra organizations that kind of go into State House campaigns, definitely reach out and contact me,” Sam Palmeter, Regional Advocacy Director of the 55th District, said.
The College Republicans’ mission is to provide a voice for conservatives and help develop young leaders. The club hopes to bring together students with similar political beliefs and provide meaningful change for the community. Ideas such as liberty, individualism and self-determination serve as the foundation for the club.
Past events for the club included a meet and greet with the Mayor of Rochester Hills Bryan Barnett, a luncheon with Congresswoman Lise McClain and a watch party of the Desantis vs. Newsom debate. Whether local or national politics, the College Republicans of OU cover a wide range of topics.
The College Republicans typically host special events in place of traditional meetings. Additionally, they also collaborate with the College Democrats of Oakland University. The two groups will occasionally host debates or political discussions.
For more information about College Republicans, email them at [email protected] or follow their Instagram @oucollegerepublicans. You can also find further information on their GrizzOrgs page.
For more information about getting involved with MFF, contact Palmeter at [email protected]. You can also visit michiganfreedomfund.com or call (989)-670-8585.
Lucido is looking for students to join his internship program this year. If you are interested in learning about the government or law, this opportunity would be perfect for Oakland students. If interested in applying for the internship, email your resume and cover letter to [email protected] or visit their website.