The qualifications to become a United States Senator are in the Constitution, Article One, Section Three, and Clause Three. To become a senator, you must be at least thirty years of age, a citizen of the United States for at least nine years, and a resident of the state you hope to represent.
Senators serve terms of six years and serve on special committees and review proposed bills related to their committee. After a bill passes through the committee, all senators vote on the bill and potentially make it into law.
Although senators do not have official running requirements, people tend to vote for representatives who have an education, many specializing in political science or law. There is no particular group of study that pertains to the process of becoming an elected official. Many senators establish notoriety and experience by participating in local politics first. They develop a track record for serving their community and attempt to gain the trust of their constituents.
Gaining support from a political party is also essential because it helps mobilize support for representatives and easily reflects their political opinions that might resonate with voters. Running a political campaign and successfully becoming elected into the senate is very expensive, so hiring campaign managers and shrewd fundraising managers is very important for gathering the monetary support needed to win. Proper filing and providing supportive signatures to the state's Secretary of State is the formality that is required to begin the campaign for the senatorial position officially.
However, the most critical piece to becoming a senator is campaigning. Canvassing is generally considered the most effective way to campaign at the state level. The personal touch and feel given to the voter in a face to face interaction are more motivating and successful than other techniques. There are different ways to advertise your candidacy that are also successful. Radio, television, internet, and billboard advertisements can also help spread the candidates' message.
However, these methods are less effective. Regardless of the process, advertising is necessary to produce a successful campaign and win a senate election.