Do postgraduates still get the 'student experience'?

The short answer is: absolutely! The opportunities are there for everyone at ARU, it’s just up to you if you want to take them.

The SU (Students' Union) is an entirely student-run charitable organisation which is separate, yet connected, to the University. It exists solely to support and represent students and to help make university life as brilliant, fun and smooth as possible!

It is a wonderful space within the uni, and open to every student registered at ARU. There are lots of societies and events run through the SU (from bad-prize bingo to student parent coffee morning and everything in between), and some will be better suited to you than others – but that’s just down to your personal preference. Popping along to an event, during Welcome Week or throughout the year, can be a great way to get advice, meet like-minded postgrads and make even more friends.

How about societies? The SU supports students to create and run mutual interest groups called ‘societies.’ These range from course-based groups like the Human Resource Management Society, through to political interest groups or sports, and clubs for hobbies like American Football or Ice Skating. Any student, undergraduate or postgraduate, full- or part-time can get involved if the society interests them and it’s the perfect place to meet like-minded people.

As a postgraduate student you also have access to the SU’s support and representation. It comes in many forms. For some, you might just want to make friends through societies, but for others you might want independent, confidential advice. For example, students can get advice on a range of academic and on-campus related issues or even just find someone to talk to; the service is entirely impartial and completely free.

Then, if you’re like me, it might be the place to get involved with a part-time job that fits in around your studies. Workwise, the SU runs campus events, bars and shops and they employ students to work in these. It’s been an excellent way to earn a little extra money but also, they are the most flexible employer as they understand your needs and commitments as a student better than anybody else.

If you already have a job or would rather be building up experience in the form of volunteering, the SU also arranges this and includes frequent trips to the local wildlife park when you can de-stress from work and help out with some fur babies!

Finally, an exciting part of the SU to remember is it is entirely student-led, which means its student leaders are elected by a cross-campus election each year. Postgrads are invited to be involved at all levels of this, too. From running to be a Course or Faculty Rep, up to being a full-time officer: you can take part or you can simply place your vote and have your say that way.

You don’t need to do anything to get involved – there’s no sign-up process or joining fee. As an ARU student you’re automatically a member of your Students' Union. Head over to angliastudent.com to find out more or visit them on campus.