By Michael Beddoes – President, University of Lincoln Students’ Union 07/08
A Students’ Union is an elected body of ex-students who provide services and support for the students of an institution. Traditionalists would say that the job fits under the heading of student politics, but that is a very boring and drab way of phrasing exactly where the job sits in terms of role.
A Students’ Union is an elected body of ex-students who provide services and support for the students of an institution. Traditionalists would say that the job fits under the heading of student politics, but that is a very boring and drab way of phrasing exactly where the job sits in terms of role.
Being an SU officer is more like part politician, part holiday rep, part businessperson and part student. Not one day at work is ever the same. One day you can find yourself making new friends and partying in the Engine Shed, the next you are wearing a suit and attending the Board of Governors. With a new team in place and 2 years experience under my belt, here’s my honest opinion on the new Students’ Union officers.
Daniel Hutchinson – Eye catching dress sense, great political background and has the ability to make sure that the structures of the Students’ Union run well. Hopefully he can use the interest generated in himself during the elections to springboard student involvement in the SU in Lincoln.
Kayleigh Turner – Made a great impression on me during training, due to her endless enthusiasm and asking all the right questions. If she carries on this way, students’ academic issues will be in very good hands.
Vicky Wieczerzynska – Compassionate and caring. No matter what problem arises, I know she will do her best to help the students involved.
Dan Windross – He has been in so many roles within the Students’ Union now. I first remember him as a fresh-faced RAG officer, then last year he was a part time officer and now he has become a full time sabbatical officer. If he can channel his experience into this year in office, he has the potential to be the best Communications Officer ever.
Maria Yesufu – The one survivor from last year’s team. Maria is the best thing that ever happened to me as an SU Officer (not in the way it probably sounds), as her drive and passion made me up my game and work harder than I had ever done previously. She stands on a record of great events (Pep Rally and AU Talent Show) and exemplary student involvement (just look at how many societies she helped start or grow).
Chris Roberts – Takes over the sports teams of the Athletic Union after a bumper couple of years. But if he puts in half the effort and enthusiasm he has used with the Rugby Union team, then the AU is in safe hands.
In these six people, you have ex-students of the University of Lincoln who will work ridiculously hard for you, the students. Any advice or support you might need, can be found with the officers of the Students’ Union in the SOAP (Student Opportunities, Activities and Participation) Centre.
Always remember that they are there for you, and that you are their bosses! You hire them through election. And you direct their jobs and also potentially fire them through Student Council.
Students shouldn’t doubt that the Students’ Union isn’t for them until they head over and see what services it provides, whether they want to play sports, join a society or get advice on everything from problems with a tutor through to housing issues.