It is the Halley's comet of student state government positions, and it is coming to the UA.

Next year, one University of Arizona student will be the new student regent, a position that includes full voting power on the Arizona Board of Regents.

The position, which floats between the Arizona universities on a three-year cycle, is open to any full-time UA undergraduate or graduate student.

Applications, which are due tomorrow by 5 p.m., can still be picked up at the Associated Students office above the ASUA Bookstore.

"I think it's much different than most other regents positions," said Mark Davis, current student regent and marketing junior at Northern Arizona University. "While (regular) regents are elected to eight-year terms, student regents are only there for a year. They see it and they live it."

The student regent position also provides a unique perspective, said Brook Rosenbaum, ASUA federal relations director.

"The student regent position has the opportunity to give the student viewpoint to issues relating to higher education," Rosenbaum said. "Some members of the board haven't been in school for quite awhile and may have lost touch with the student experience. That's a perspective that the student regent can provide."

ASUA President Benjamin Driggs said it is vital that the student regent be a good communicator.

"It is very important to have a student regent who is articulate and willing to express themselves in a body where there are many intelligent and accomplished people," he said. "A good student regent will be able to accurately represent the way that UA students feel and determine what are helpful and insightful policies."

Davis said applicants should treat the process as a learning experience.

"Be yourself and don't get caught up in the position," he said. "Even if you don't get the position, appreciate the process for what it is."

Davis said he spends 20 to 30 hours per week on board issues and expects that the new student regent will have to do the same.

"There are so many things going on at one time, you have to keep the best interests of students in mind," he said. "It's impossible to keep up on all regents material."

Davis said the regents will likely continue discussing tenure and affirmative action next year. He said he also expects debate on the financial efficiency of Arizona universities to go on, especially in light of possible education funding cuts.

Overall, he urged whomever is selected always to get student input and make sure student concerns are addressed. Driggs said more than 60 applications have already been picked up.

The pool will be reduced to three contenders. Those names will be forwarded to Gov. Fife Symington for selection.

The new student regent will take office July 1.