It’s hard to believe my time as Student Union President has come to an end. I’ve been involved with the Students’ Union for the last five years, in all sorts of roles, and I can honestly say these experiences have had a lasting impact on me. I couldn’t have gotten through university life without the Union. It’s been my support, my community, and my purpose. I feel fortunate to have been a part of it.
It’s hard to believe my time as Student Union President has come to an end.
I’ve been involved with the Students’ Union for the last five years, in all sorts of roles, and I can honestly say these experiences have had a lasting impact on me. I couldn’t have gotten through university life without the Union. It’s been my support, my community, and my purpose. I feel fortunate to have been a part of it.
This past year as President has been full of learning, challenges, and moments I’ll never forget (some very funny moments) A big thanks to Harry for being the funniest person in the office, closely followed by Ian! I stepped into the role to make a difference, and I leave proud of what we’ve accomplished together. From big to small wins, I’ve always done my best to be your voice in the room and to ensure you are being heard.
From securing free student parking at High Wycombe Campus to launching our first session as University Council Away Day, where students shared their lived experiences to shape change, we’ve centred student voices every step of the way. We ran Sexual Health Week as part of our Safety Net campaign, creating space for real conversations around consent, wellbeing, and support. Also held the first ever Interprofessional Learning: Connecting Health and Social Care event, where students had the chance to practice in a multi-disciplinary environment.
But not just creating change internally but on a national scale too, standing up for students by lobbying the government for renters’ rights especially lobbying for no guarantors, being a student is hard enough without having to fight for accommodation, and putting out a statement to support our LGBTQIA+ community. There is much more but all the projects, campaigns, advocating, has reminded me just how powerful we are when we come together.
We’ve taken your concerns straight to the top, from everyday issues to being part of the interview process for a new Vice-Chancellor. And in that, I’ve seen the shift happening. I truly believe students are now a priority. It will take time, like all meaningful change does, but we’re on the path. And I hope the university continues to shape into a place everyone feels proud to be part of.
There have also been concerns pushed through the year that will see many changes in the year to come, Personal Tutoring, Academic Integrity, Artificial Intelligence, Accommodation, classroom resources and digital work going forwards. It’s been great to work on these issues and welcome all the changes that will be made.
To all the Elected Officers I have had the privilege to work with over the last two years, Sruthi, Jess, Brandon, Wren, Harry, and Beth - How lucky was I to be around individuals who are kind and passionate. Special shout out to Imo, your professionalism, willingness to help, radiate inclusivity and just being a smiley face is something I have very much appreciated. Thank you! To all SU staff, keep being amazing. It's been great working with you all.
To our very own CEO Tristan - like I said at the Union awards it's unique to still care as much as you do after all these long years, but you do and the Union wouldn’t be the same without you, thank you.
And to everyone who’s been part of my time here, thank you. Whether we worked together on a campaign, crossed paths in a meeting, or just had a quick chat in the corridor, you’ve all been part of this chapter. You’ve shaped my experience in ways I’ll never forget.
And the biggest thank you to every student, thank you for trusting me, and I hope I have made a difference in some way.
I want to wish Jean Marc, Beth, Erin, and Joe all the best of luck for the year ahead, you are all lovely people and I know you will be a fabulous team and continue to make lots of changes.
Thank you, Bucks Students’ Union, for everything.
So, for one last time,
Thank you from your President, 2024-25
Amy x