Whether you’ve already started through your application and just need a little push, or never thought about how being an officer would benefit you, here are 10 reasons why you should stand in this year’s Students’ Union elections! 

1. You learn new skills that build character and confidence 

 
The support and training you receive alongside your experiences allow you to develop in key areas that will come in handy for your professional career down the line. These skills include campaigning, public speaking, community engagement, policy, advocacy, influencing, project management, budgeting handling, strategic planning, and much more. 
 

2. You get to work on big issues that affect students 

This role allows you to be the voice of students - you are the main spokesperson for all 20,000 students here at City, ensuring that the University and Students’ Union are investing in the full academic experience. This means you get to make life a little easier for the students around you and those yet to come. 

3. You represent the academic interests of all City students 

The last few years have been tough - sitting in this role would give you the opportunity to let University staff know just how hard it is to be a student right now. From timetable changes and personal tutors, to industrial action and exams, you will work together with University staff to ensure all City students are able to achieve the best degree possible. 

4. You shape the way things are done 

Think big! Students’ Union Officers are at the forefront of decision-making. You are able to give crucial feedback and change the way things run at City – create the great student experience you’ve always dreamed of1 

5. You have unique real-life experiences that make you stand out to employers 

This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! This position is only available to students currently enrolled here at City, either as a placement year or at the end of your studies - once it’s gone, it’s gone. You get to work on creative projects, shape strategies that have impact for years to come and the opportunity to leave a legacy. 

You will direct a leading organisation as one of our trustees and you may even sit on the University’s executive board. Not many young people can say they’ve been a trustee - in fact only 3% of trustees are under the age of 30 and 0.5% are under the age of 24 - so if that applies to you, you would become part of a movement of young trustees shaping the way charities are run. 

6. You’ll learn more about yourself as a person 

You’ll discover your strengths and explore your values. You get to learn where your passions lie, how you work best, and what makes you tick! This is fantastic for learning how you’ll cope in the work environment, later in your career. 

7. You gain access to a wide network 

Being in this role means you speak with a lot of people in a variety of different industries. You will be able to build a network of allies who can provide you with advice and support in whichever path you want to take. 
 

8. You get to be part of a larger student network and a national voice 

You’ll be able to travel to conferences across the country to work with other students’ unions and organisations including the National Union of Students. This position gives you the opportunity to speak at a national level and influence decisions made at Parliament. Huge decisions like the 2-year post-study work visa have been shaped by the national student movement and you could soon be campaigning for national change! 

9. You get a head start in your career 

Taking up an elected position of Students’ Union Officer gives you the unique opportunity to get all the perks of being a student while working full-time. It provides you with a perfect transition from student life to the industry of your choice and you’ll leave University with a year of full-time paid work under your belt. 

10. You get to work with passionate and knowledgeable staff at an organisation that cares 

All of the staff at City SU are passionate and dedicated to working with students to deliver the best University experience. We genuinely want the best for you and will be working to support your projects and campaigns. We’re happy when you’re happy!? 

Nominations are open until 23:59 on Sunday 19th February so now is the time to start your application! If you want confidential advice about the role or how to run a great campaign, you can book a chat with a member of the team here.