Speaking as a student representative

Being a student representative is one of the best ways to make a difference during your time at university. Its a great opportunity to get involved in shaping your course and improving the lives of current and future students at your University.

Examples of the skills you will be able to demonstrate as a rep include:

Meeting skills (possibly including chairing, minuting and drawing up agendas) Communication skills (written and verbal) Research and analytical skills (from surveying or talking to students, and using that information in meetings) Building relationships (with students, other reps and staff) Negotiation and diplomacy skills Public speaking (standing for election and feeding back to coursemates) Assertiveness and self-confidence

As a student representative, youll get to talk to more people on your course and be a point of contact for them. Youll get to know your lecturers* and support staff better, as youll be in contact with them regularly as part of your role (which is handy for getting stuff done, to find things out, and even for references).