CLEARWATER, Fla. — Welcome to 9 Questions with…, an exclusive Spectrum Bay News 9 feature in which we get to know some of the Bay area’s movers and shakers a little better. It could be a politician, an artist, a first responder, a bartender—just about anyone, really. This week’s subject is USF Student Government senator, former Charlie Crist intern and award-winning community activist Sean Schrader. Is there someone you’d like to answer 9 Questions? Let us know!

Are you a Tampa Bay native? If not, where are you from?

I was born at Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater, and have remained in Clearwater ever since. 

How would you describe your job or claim to fame?

I have been very fortunate to have many opportunities to be involved in my community working with organizations and groups such as the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport Noise Abatement Task Force, the YMCA of the Suncoast and the Clearwater Charter Review Committee. Recently, I was elected a senator in the USF Student Government, and I hope to bring my past experiences to this new role. 

What’s your favorite Tampa Bay restaurant?

Carmelita's Mexican Restaurant, I think their salsa is the best!

Do you have a personal Tampa Bay “secret spot” and/or “hidden treasure”?

I enjoy visiting Eagle Lake Park in Largo, as they have many scenic bike trails. 

What is your favorite Tampa Bay tradition?

The Sun 'N Fun [Aerospace Expo] in Lakeland is always exciting to attend. Aviation is a personal interest of mine, and getting to see the planes up close is interesting. 

What’s one thing many people don’t know about you that you’re willing to share with us?

One of my hobbies is collecting model cars. Throughout my life I have accumulated more than 1,000 of them. While I am in a store, I usually will make a special trip to the toy aisle to see if they have any interesting new models. 

If you could change one thing about the Tampa Bay area or your community specifically, what would it be?

I think that Tampa Bay is on the rise, and is a growing attraction for people to live, work, and play. I do believe that there is a disjunction that exists between the business community and neighborhoods throughout Tampa Bay. Both aspects of our community are very important, and I think that finding a balance between those groups is crucial. 

How did you first become involved in public/community/collegiate service?

I first attended a Clearwater Neighborhoods Coalition meeting with my father about 10 years ago. This group focuses on neighborhood advocacy issues. To begin with, I would bring my model cars to play with at the meetings, but soon, I realized that the topics being discussed at the meetings would also be impacting me. I believed that if I could get involved, I would bring a unique youth's perspective to the table. 

What would you suggest to someone who wants to “get involved” in their community, but isn’t quite sure how?

I think that community involvement, and really making a positive difference in the community can be defined in many ways, whether it is volunteering with a civic advocacy group, or picking up trash on the beach. I would suggest researching your local city council, and watching/attending one of their meetings. Oftentimes, there are many available volunteer opportunities discussed at those types of meetings.