entering the real world: how student unions can make a difference

Entering the Real World:How Student Unions can

make a difference

Mo HaqueMembership Development ManagerMUSU

Organise ElectionsOrganise EventsTrain, Support and Advise:Elected OfficersStudent RepsClubs and Societies

As a Student...

• Did nothing related to extra-curricular activity for the first 2 years

• Had no idea what I wanted to do after I finished university

• Who can relate?

Final Year

• Needed to think about the future

• Placements, Internships (missed deadlines)

• Volunteering was an option

• Discovered MUSU

Societies

Democracy

Student Reps

Student Buddies

Student Magazine

Student Radio station

Campaigns

Events

Elections

MUSU

As an Officer...• Ambitious Manifestos

• Very political environment

• Campaigning Issues: e.g. Funding Cuts in Higher Education

• Lots of meetings

• Training and personal development

Student example

• Wei: International Students' Officer

• Radio, Magazine, Societies Reps, Elected Officers

Skills to learn through activities

• Communication: speaking, listening, writing, presenting

• Teamwork: knowing how you work best with others

• Leadership: working towards a vision

• Personal Growth: build confidence, self esteem, resourcefulness

In summary...

•Everyone has huge potential

• Just get involved in various activities: •'input is output'

•Keep a track of everything you are learning•In the process you will be making a

positive impact on others

• Mo Haque

• m.haque@mdx.ac.uk