A political newcomer and two incumbent senators had already signed up to run for the position of Student Union president Monday night. But the Union's current president, Alison Schwartzbaum '08, said she's not sure if she's running for a second term. "I need my time to decide [on whether to seek another term]," said Schwartzbaum, who still has a week to decide. "It's a personal decision. What matters to me is that the school sees quality people who'll do a great job."

"There are good things about running again and bad things," she added.

Senator at Large Andrew Brooks '09 and Senator for the Class of 2008 Asher Tanenbaum both signed up to run for office along with Frank Golub '10, who has never held an office. All three said they made the decision to sign up Monday night, but Brooks said he had contemplated a run for some time.

Schwartzbaum, who ran unopposed for the position last year, would not comment further. She had not signed up by presstime, and would not say when she would make her decision.

Elections sign-ups started Monday night and will continue until March 12. Polls will open March 20 for the executive positions of President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. Elections for Union representatives and Finance Board members will also begin that day.

"I'm in this to win," Brooks told the Justice Monday night. "I have a clear vision and a platform, which will be released on my Web site after sign-ups close." He said he aims to make Brandeis a better place for all students.

Union rules prohibit campaigning for all offices until after a mandatory candidates meeting, which will be on March 12.

Both Brooks and Tanenbaum declined to provide details of their platforms. Tanenbuam did say, "I do hope to win."

Golub said his inexperience won't hamper his ability to be an effective president.

"I believe I'm qualified," Golub said. "The most important qualification is the ability to go up to people and saying 'hello,' so things can get done."

Golub said his administration would focus on being "frank" with students on issues including tuition increases and housing shortages. He said he would also work to bring in noteworthy speakers on issues including the Middle East.

-Claire Moses contributed reporting to this article.