Campaign-In-A-Day Student Profile: Austin Cook

In 2016 American Majority held our first Campaign-In-A-Day event in July in Ohio with 70 students. Fast forward to 2019 where this summer we have traveled to 7 states to train over 400 students and adults through our traditional Campaign-In-A-Day, training as well as the new Campaign-In-A-Day Snapshot, and our Campaign-In-A-Week programs. This profile series of blog posts are this summer’s attendees experiences with the event.

Name: Austin Cook
From: Grove City, Pennsylvania
Education/Occupation: Student of History Education at Pensacola Christian College
Campaign-In-A-Days Attended: Patriot Academy – Texas  2018, 2019; Arizona 2019; Idaho 2019; Delaware 2019

The Campaign-In-A-Day is a rush from start to finish, demonstrating through both success and failure whether or not you have what it takes to run a campaign. I have been in almost every campaign role, from Campaign Manager to Finance Director during CIAD, and I have always found that success relies on communication. So many times throughout the process of the campaign, people will focus in on their own sections, breaking contact with the group. This separation may help you get your job done, but the breakdown always becomes painfully evident when the final presentation to the judging panel occurs. Separated teammates will not know what is happening or what the rest of your team has been promoting, and you will most likely lose. 

I believe the most important thing for a new student to remember going into the Campaign-In-A-Day is that everyone on your team is working towards a common goal. This goal is promoting a single individual on your team higher than yourself. That individual may not be the most exceptional leader, but as your candidate, it is up to you to make him look like the most competent leader that has ever run for office. For those serving as a candidate, it is up to you to find your own weaknesses and delegate them to people more qualified to assist you in those areas. Each campaign needs to be a cohesive whole, aiding each other for the good of the candidate and those he represents.

For a new student planning on attending a Campaign-In-A-Day, I recommend you come looking for a great time, expecting to work hard, and knowing it is a team effort.