How getting involved with the SU will help you get more out of your university experience
Written by Georgina Pittman, an English graduate from the University of Nottingham and now your 2019/20 Activities Officer!
Although you probably know our SU exists, you might not be aware of the variety of opportunities it offers. Looking for a new hobby? Contact the Students’ Union. Want to play for a sports team? Contact the Students’ Union. After fun experiences that will give your CV a boost? Contact the Students’ Union.
Joining societies and student groups
Lots of people think that joining a society or student group means you need certain skills or qualities and having 100% commitment, but that isn’t at all true! In fact, all you need is curiosity.
As an English student, I was involved in the English Society from the start of my first year and was elected onto its committee in my third year. I’m also a fan of musicals and got involved in Musicality halfway through my third year, when I helped out backstage at one of its shows.
From both groups, I developed life skills like organisation, self-confidence and creativity, all while sharing some brilliant memories with amazing friends. So no matter how much you do with a group or how long you’re a part of it, investing just a little time in a student group that sparks your imagination can completely transform your University experience.
Getting involved in sports
Even though I never officially joined a sports team, trying out new sports taught me a lot about myself. Most obviously, trying new things provides a great opportunity to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Even though I wasn’t very good at korfball or karate, I’m still proud of myself for stepping out and not being afraid to look foolish for a couple of hours. And trying synchronised swimming and cheerleading gave me completely new perceptions of the sports. That kind of ‘go get it’ attitude has served me well ever since in both choosing both more obscure course modules and in applying for jobs.
I have plenty of friends in sports teams too, and they consider their teams like family. If you can find a new family away from your real family, I’d say you’ll find a way to make yourself at home anywhere.
Boost your CV
Moving from University and into the working world can be daunting. But your SU can help there too. In fact, I can safely say that being involved in the SU has transformed my CV and career ambitions.
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community – whether that’s helping your fellow students as a Welcome Mentor or supporting the wider community through projects with local schools or charities. Helping others is also great for your wellbeing and, as cheesy as it sounds, you get out of it what you put into it!
If you’re strapped for cash, the SU also offers several paid opportunities, including Brand and Insight Ambassadors – a role I’ve loved! I’ve been paid to cover Varsity on social media, write blog posts (like this) and chat to prospective students on open days.
If that’s not for you, student positions are also available in SPAR, Mooch and Portland Coffee Co. As well as making a worthy contribution to your CV, these jobs also give you an insight into how the SU works – something you can take forward into your future career, no matter what that is.
Hopefully this little round-up has given you a flavour of the different ways that the Students’ Union not only improves your University experience but your personal development and career prospects. I can safely say that my experience at UoN would not be half as memorable without our Students’ Union!