HERO area
A highly selective group of 24 first-year students who serve as the freshmen representation in ASUN Student Government.
Each year, the FCLA cohort works closely with ASUN executives and the university administration to make tangible change on campus through student advocacy projects. Led by two upperclassmen co-directors, FCLA completes a curriculum of leadership development and is introduced to university structures and student government.
FCLA meets from 5 to 6 p.m. each Wednesday. The location is typically in Nebraska Union, with occasional meetings in Nebraska East Union and in the community. There are two group retreats - one each in fall and spring.
Questions? Send a message to asun1@unl.edu or visit the ASUN office in Nebraska Union, Room 136.
Apply for 2026
Full-time first-year UNL students enrolled for the 2026 Fall Semester are eligible to apply.
Timeline
May 26, 2026 | Application open
Sept 9, 2026 | Application closes at 4 p.m.
Mid-September | Notification date for interviews
(Each applicant will receive an email informing them whether or not they have been selected for an interview.)Sept 30, 2026 | First meeting at 5 p.m.
Requirements
Resume - you will be prompted to upload a current resume in PDF format. (Include your First and Last Name in the file name.)
Essay Questions - there are a series of short-answer and essay questions.
Applicant must be a full-time, first-year student.
Tips
Proofread and spell-check your application before submitting.
Be specific yet concise in your answers.
As an associate, you gain:
- A network of 20-24 first-year students and two upperclassmen mentors from across the university.
- Connections to university administration, faculty, staff, and students.
- Further involvement in ASUN Student Government.
- Participation in large-scale university programming events.
- Project management and problem-solving skills.
- University, local, and state student advocacy skills.
- A supportive environment to pursue interests on campus.
I have made friends, connections, and memories by being involved in FCLA. This organization has left such a positive impact on my freshman year in college. Although I will miss it, I know the community we have created will endure.
Alex Halvorsen, FCLA Class of 2024
Past projects completed by FCLA
2025-26
Safe Walk Accessibility
Worked alongside UNLPD to create increased awareness of their Safe Walk Program. Creating magnets with the Safe Walk number and putting them into all first-year student resident halls.
2025-26
Reset Station
Collaborated with CAPS and CARE to create an interactive student experience to raise awareness on stress management. Providing resources to students right before finals.
Formation of the Low Income Task Force
Created the ASUN Low Income Task Force to support low-income students by advocating for and offering resources such as financial education, transportation, and scholarship access.
Sexual Misconduct Prevention Advocacy
Formed an ASUN partnership with the Title IX Office and the Registrar's Office to mandate annual Sexual Misconduct training for students each fall semester.
National Agriculture Day Meal
Organized a UNL National Agriculture Day event featuring a free meal for students and educational booths highlighting the state and national impact of agriculture, held on city campus.
Spring Fling Philanthropy
Hosted a Spring Fling event with games and treats, open to all UNL students, with proceeds benefiting the Husker Pantry.