In the last few weeks I’ve been partaking in the long-standing holiday tradition of relentlessly refreshing social media hoping something other than pictures of presents and Christmas food appear, which means one thing and one thing only - Buzzfeed. So, as I’m now only able to communicate in a whimsical list-form*, here are my three suggestions to our Vice Chancellor just in case she’s struggling to decide on a resolution today.
1) Open a quality study space in town
At the moment there are 16 computers available on a 24/7 basis in the cramped study room in Laura Place for the 6000 students who live in town, compared to the 200+ available around the clock for the 2500 students living on Penglais Campus. The University recently unveiled plans to develop the Old College and surrounding areas, to include the loss of the Laura Place room. 2014 needs to be the year that the University recognises that the study facilities currently in place in town just aren’t good enough.
2) Develop special circumstances that are fair to everyone
It’s been almost a year and a half since the University implemented a ‘zero marks for late submission’ policy in every department, but still nothing’s been done to standardise the procedure for students who have special circumstances affecting their ability to hand in coursework on time. Some departments offer extensions, some tell students their outcome in a matter of hours whilst others leave students completely in the dark whilst they’re already experiencing difficult circumstances. I’m already working with your student Institute Reps on this, and we want a fair, equal special circumstances policy for every student to be created in 2014.
3) Adopt the Postgraduate Employment Charter as University policy
Many postgraduate students often have to teach as part of their scholarship or funding terms. Whilst they’re still students, they also resemble employees; it’s really important that their conditions are fair, they’re paid for their work and are fully supported as members of staff. This year, I’ll be asking the University to sign up to the charter developed by the National Union of Students and the University and College Union and ensure that they adequately recognise just how much postgraduates contribute to the academic community here.
Oh, and my resolution? Go out and talk! My job only exists because of you – students – and yet I find myself sat behind a desk tapping away at emails and shuffling committee papers far more than I’d like. I always have a great time when I go out and chat to you, and I always end up bursting with ideas that you’ve given me. Unfortunately the paperwork and emails are a necessarily evil in this role, but for 2014 I pledge to get out around campus and talk to as many of you as I can about how you’re finding your time at University. If you happen to see me around (either wearing my Education Officer polo shirt or my Students’ Union lanyard) then do say hello!
Have a great 2014, here’s to one packed with fulfilled resolutions...
*Rejected titles:
- You need to see this pug’s reaction to being told students are customers
- The 12 least comfortably furnished lecture theatres in the Llandinam building
- The 14 pieces of poorly-written graffiti that explain why the University keeps the walkways so badly lit