Written by Chloe Shanahan
What leading the SRC taught me about people (and myself)
When I put my hand up for the Student Representative Council (SRC) two years ago, I had no idea it would become one of the most defining parts of my university experience. As a Bachelor of Education (K-12) student in Port Macquarie, I thought I was signing up to help organise a few events. Instead, I made a bunch of new friends and got a front-row seat to watching students grow throughout their time at uni.
Key experiences and achievements
As SRC President, I have led my team through a range of on- and off-campus initiatives, from fundraising events such as Do It for Dolly Day to organising this year’s May Ball. I have represented our campus at the Luminosity Youth Summit and partnered with countless local Port Macquarie businesses to enhance our events. More recently, I have helped bring student skills workshops to life, connecting classroom learning with real industry experience. Watching an idea move from a rough concept to something students actually enjoy, and even something that shapes their student experience, is still one of my favourite parts of the job.
Skills I have developed
- Communication, whether that is with other members, stakeholders, students or staff, through face-to-face conversations and emails
- Event planning, often for several events running at once
- Prioritisation, learning to work out what genuinely matters
- Advocacy, speaking up for the students I represent and making sure everyone has a voice
Opportunities I have been given
The SRC has opened doors I would not have even known existed otherwise. Sitting across the table from local business owners as both a student leader and collaborative partner still fills me with so much pride, for myself, my team and Charles Sturt as a whole. I have also loved bringing my own rural roots into my advocacy work. It is not something I planned; it just naturally became a part of how I lead. These experiences are shaping who I am becoming, both personally and professionally.
Something that surprised me
I braced myself for the workload, but what I did not brace myself for was falling in love with watching new members join the SRC and grow into their roles. There is honestly nothing better than watching someone walk in unsure of themselves, then walk out a confident leader, and knowing I got to be part of their journey. It gives me the same enjoyment as my Residential Leader role, watching students find their feet and discover their voice.
My advice to you
Say yes to every opportunity, even the ones that scare you a little. If you are curious about student leadership, just go for it. You do not need a long-term plan or all the answers; I certainly did not have either when I started. Two years on, it is still hands down one of the parts of my degree I am most proud of.
Charlie blog is a SSAF initiative.
