What is RAUSU?
RAUSU is an independent charity that represents students, provides support, and runs activities to improve student life. Every university has one, and they are usually led by students who are elected each year.
They help students feel part of a community, support them when they have problems, and ensure their voices are heard in how universities are run. They're a big part of student life in the UK and exist to make university a better experience for everyone.
What Are Students' Union Elections?
Students' union elections are a democratic process in which students at RAU vote for their representatives within the students' union. These elections determine who will lead the SU and advocate on behalf of the student body. Elected officers typically include the SU President and other student representatives who take on leadership roles for a set term, usually one academic year.
Why Do We Have Students' Union Elections?
Students' union elections play a vital role in student representation and university governance. They exist to ensure:
- Student Voice & Representation: The SU represents students' interests at all levels of university decision-making, ensuring that their views are considered in academic policies, campus life, and student welfare.
- Accountability: The elected officers are responsible for listening to students and taking action on their concerns, holding both the SU and the university accountable for delivering a positive student experience.
- Engagement & Community Building: The election process encourages student participation in shaping their university experience and fosters a sense of belonging and leadership development.
- Advocacy & Support: Elected officers campaign on key issues such student support services, accommodation, and wellbeing, often working closely with the university and external organisations like the National Union of Students (NUS).
- Leadership Development: These elections provide students with an opportunity to develop leadership, communication, and organisational skills, helping to prepare them for future careers.
How Do Elections Work?
- Nominations: Students who wish to stand for election submit their nominations, outlining their plans and priorities if elected.
- Campaigning: Candidates campaign across campus and online, engaging with students to explain their vision and encourage voting.
- Voting: All students have the opportunity to vote, usually through an online voting system.
- Results & Implementation: Successful candidates take up their roles and begin working to improve student life at RAU.
How do I get involved?
- Stand! If you think you could lead our students' union, nominate yourself to stand.
- Know someone who you think would be a great SU President? Send them this website.
- Vote. Exercising your right to vote in this election is incredibly important for the future student experience. When voting opens, please do read the manifestos and take a couple of minutes to vote.
