Why nominate?

What is it like being an Officer?

Being a student representative can lead to great things. Not only can you make a difference during your time in the role, you can gain great experience and skills that can benefit you later in life. Below are interviews with past Student Union officers talking about their time in the role and where it has led them in life.

Still of video: interview with Gemma Truner
Gemma Turner
Past Leeds SU Equality and Diversity Officer

More interviews coming soon!

Why should I nominate myself?

A chance to make a difference

We all know that 2020 was a tough year, particularly for students. There will still be challenges ahead, where students will need passionate representatives to stand up for their rights. Nominating yourself means that you want to advocate for the interests of your fellow students and ensure their University experience is the best it can be. If elected, you will have the opportunity to lead campaigns on the issues from your manifesto and make positive changes for and with students, not only in York but potentially at a national level.

A chance to build your skills

Running in the Elections will give you an opportunity to gain a wide range of experiences and skills. From campaigning to public speaking, the experience of being a candidate can benefit you later in life. If elected, you will develop professional communication, project management, leadership and work collaboratively with senior University staff, to name just a few areas. Gaining these professional skills could enhance not only your academic work, but your career prospects as a graduate. Sabbatical Officers are full time paid staff members, so you will gain the experience of taking on a leadership role within a multi-million pound charity as your first graduate job!

A chance to meet new people

As a candidate you will have a chance to meet new people, in a year where social interaction has been limited. Candidates often form lasting friendships and support each other through the unique experience of running. You will meet like-minded individuals not only by socialising with fellow candidates but also by having the platform to speak to voters.

Nominations open Monday 8th February 9am (Week 5)

What will I need to submit a nomination?

Nominations aren’t open yet, but you can prepare now! Submitting a nomination will be via an online form asking for the following information:

  • Blurb - This is a summary of you, your campaign or your policies. It is only 100 characters so keep it short and sweet (it is the perfect space for a campaign slogan).
  • Manifesto - This is where you will set out your ideas that you would like to achieve if elected to the role. This is the main part of your nomination and what voters will base their decision on. It needs to start with 3 key bullet points that summarise your manifesto. You can write the rest in whatever format you like. You will have a maximum of 500 words (including the bullet points) as it is key to get your points across in a succinct and engaging way. Your nomination must not contain offensive or party political content.
  • Photo - The photo must be a clear individual headshot (or joint headshot if running in a pair) with a plain background. The size must be 400x400, maximum file size 1MB.

If you have any questions or would like more information about the Elections please email [email protected]