September 2021. An 18 year old me first heard of this strange concept called a ‘Students’ Union’. Suddenly five years have flown by. From Academic Rep to being on Activities Exec, from FWEM to SUmmit and Activities Officer. In September, I’m starting a new adventure, one I’m so excited about, but at least I get to stay in the city I love - Bath.

I’ve kept engaged with the SU for one reason: I love this place. It has an energy like no other - passionate student leaders, incredible staff and a shared mission to make student life the best it can be. I will miss it so much, but before I go, I want to tell you why being an SU Officer might just be the best decision you’ll ever make. For me, it’s been lifechanging.

This role really does help boost your career. You learn key skills and get accountability from day one. With leadership, negotiation, project management, public speaking, resilience, strategic thinking… the list goes on. You’ll work with all stakeholders; from students, staff, the VC, the council and sometimes even government. You’ll learn how to influence decisions, manage budgets and make change happen. You’ll get the chance to show you can handle responsibility, deliver results that will have a positive impact on students for years to come, and yes, finally learn what strategy actually means. Honestly, I’ve grown so much and I know these skills will stay with me for life.

What about the Activities Officer role? Well, it’s never boring. One day you’re meeting students to understand what’s working and where we can improve. The next, you’re looking at policy changes in the sector, attending events, or supporting student voice on everything from divestment to housing policies. You sit on many university committees and see all four corners of the SU. You look after Arts, Faith and Cultural, Societies and Volunteering and Fundraising Groups (that’s 160 different communities by the way). You get to lead on sustainability and everything employability. It’s at the heart of student life and you get to shape it.

The best part? Students. Listening to your experiences, understanding your challenges and finding solutions. It’s not always easy, but you’re supported every step of the way and you learn so much about yourself in the process. I’ve loved seeing the passion of our student body and working alongside student leaders who care deeply about making things better.

This really is your chance to make change happen. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I’m so proud of the students, staff and fellow officers I’ve worked with.

So… why not give it a go? Tell us about what you believe in, what you’re passionate about and why you should lead the union.

Trust me: you won’t regret it and you won’t look back.

Sam x