I’m biased, but being a Student Officer is the best job in the world!
The title says it all – being a Student Officer is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and, as I come to the end of my 2 year journey, I wanted to look back and share a few highlights with you. I started off as Vice-President Academic Quality; I subsequently re-ran and was elected President. Both roles have been…
So much more than what I expected!
I think as a student I never realised how much goes on behind the scenes. The number of departments, activities and initiatives that take place within the Students’ Union and the University is infinite and you can really get involved in so much! Personally, I have learnt so much more than what I thought I could take from this role – working in such a vibrant and fast-paced environment has shown me just how much planning goes into things and just how many new projects come to life every week.
I have met some incredible Honorary Fellows of the University, I have given speeches at events and I have travelled across the UK representing students’ views. If you know me, you’ll know I’m quite a quiet and calm individual, but looking back I can now tell you that…
Campaigning and public speaking are anything but scary
I’ve met a few people who have considered running for a Student Officer role, but have been put off by the idea of having to campaign and speak at graduations. It really isn’t as bad as it sounds. If you are passionate about creating change and you naturally like speaking to people, others will see it and your dedication will shine through. There is always a buzz at graduation ceremonies and sitting in the front row seeing your friends walk onto the stage fills you with excitement! Delivering the speech in itself becomes natural very quickly – the acoustics in the cathedral are great and you are reading your own words, so you end up learning it in no time.
‘Boring’ is not an option
I have not had a single boring day in this job. In fact, I have learnt so much from it. From helping first-years move into halls, to organising big events in a week and marching alongside students and staff. I have planned and delivered training, hosted award nights and spoken at conferences. These experiences have not only taught me more about myself, they have helped me figure out what I want to do next and they have made me realise I am capable of so much more than what I thought when I first joined the University. My confidence has grown considerably over time but, most importantly…
I am ‘just’ a student
Both when I started and now, as I have recently enrolled for a Masters. Any LJMU student can achieve what I have achieved and my best advice is just go for it. Being a Student Officer is an incredibly rewarding job – I have always wanted to make the best out of my University experience and I would encourage you to do the same by taking up any and all opportunities you are presented with, including this one!
