Communication is a fundamental aspect of the Students’ Union’s work, and it will make or break the success of an SU team in the eyes of the student body.
The SU works hard to deliver the best representation and services it can for students, but unless students are aware of such efforts, a sense of distance and a political cynicism can easily emerge. As such, the role of Communications Officer is a huge responsibility.
This position entails a commitment to long hours of design and production, constant brainstorming of creative new campaign ideas, and the enhancement and development of existing means of communication.
Along with the multitude of creative duties, you are also an elected representative, there to be of assistance and support students at all times.
Newspaper production, campaign design, website management are all manageable. It is the juggling of all these things with the busy schedule of being an elected representative that can make the job so challenging. Regular meetings, councils and campaigns and events mean that you have to work hard to stay on top of everything.
Providing advice and assistance, hearing and acting on students’ concerns, advising on college procedures, dealing with queries and problems, putting students in the right direction and being constantly available are all important aspects of the job.
At the end of the day the SU is the union of the students – there to make college life easier and better for every student. Above all, you have to really care about and believe in what you’re doing. It is a huge undertaking. You have to possess a genuine desire to do the job well, and serve students as best you can.
