Philip H. Peckinpaugh is taking an unusual approach to getting a job after college. The 21-year-old Indiana State University student is campaigning to be Muncie's next mayor.
"If I didn't think I could win, I wouldn't have entered," Peckinpaugh, a Democrat, said. "Worst case scenario is I'll get some exposure."
Peckinpaugh, a political science and communications major, moved to Muncie in 2002 and said he loves the city.
Although he learns a lot in class, Peckinpaugh said he learns more by actually participating in politics.
"I've always had a passion for public service and a passion for politics," Peckinpaugh said.
Muncie Mayor Dan Canan said more young people should get involved in local politics.
"One of the problems with the political process is that many young people feel intimidated to be involved," Canan said. "Even if [Peckinpaugh] would not win, the fact that a young person is venturing into the political is positive."
Peckinpaugh said he is ready to face the challenges that come along with campaigning, including criticisms about his lack of experience, young age, obligation to school in another city and lack of finances, he said.
"Obviously I don't have a lot of experience," Peckinpaugh said. "But in my way of looking at things, I believe that kind of puts me at an edge."
He said he would surround himself with intelligent people and listen to residents to figure out what Muncie needs.
"I think the one thing we really need to push is not exercising your physical muscles but exercising that muscle between your ears," Peckinpaugh said.
He said he is trying to set up an interview with Ball State University President Jo Ann Gora to discuss Muncie and Ball State relations.
"I feel like Ball State and Muncie are looked at as two very separate entities," Peckinpaugh said, "and Ball State is kind of a town inside Muncie, Indiana."
He said Muncie should go to greater lengths to embrace Ball State as a part of the city.
"I'd want to listen to anyone who had something to tell me on what the city of Muncie needs to do to get more Ball State students to stay
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