CUCSA Elections: Focus on Sam Brown; retiring UWS Vice President

In light of the upcoming elections we thought we’d ask existing executive member Sam Brown to tell us a little bit about what being involved with CUCSA has been like for her. If you’re thinking of getting involved check out what Sam has to say; it’s a great insight into the organisation!

Sam with some exhibitors at this year’s Freshers Fair

“In case you don’t know CUCSA stands for Crichton University Campus Student Association. As the student’s association for both the University of Glasgow and the University of the West of Scotland in Dumfries, CUCSA is the hub for social events, information events, societies, sports clubs and much more.

My journey with CUCSA began in my third year of study when I was elected on to the association as an Executive Member. This role gave me the opportunity to find out about all the different aspects of student life that CUCSA was involved with, and be as active with the Association as my study schedule allowed.

I had the opportunity to try my hand at horse riding, event promotion and chairing meetings. I particularly enjoyed supporting CUCSA to facilitate Fresher’s Week events, particularly Fresher’s Fayre, which was a great opportunity to find out about local businesses and third sector organisations. I enjoyed being part of CUCSA so much that I stood for the position of UWS Vice President while in my fourth year at university. There was a niggling concern that I was taking on too much in my final year of study but as CUCSA consists entirely of students there is a great empathy and understanding amongst members about the stresses associated with studying, exams and placements.

Events are arranged around these high stress periods and there is no pressure or expectation to prioritise CUCSA commitments over studying! As CUCSA’s UWS Vice President my main role was to ensure that the UWS vision for students was progressed which is to “enhance the student experience by

Dishing out some free condoms a a CUCSA event

Dishing out some free condoms a a CUCSA event

encouraging all students to take part in sport and activities and to promote the benefits of physical and mental health.” CUCSA seeks to achieve this by creating an environment that enhances and empowers each student, by facilitating events that inspire students to become the best that they can be, and by providing an experience that lasts a lifetime.

I have had the opportunity to work with the UWS pastoral team, progress the creation of a care experienced students forum in Dumfries, work with partner agencies including Sexual Health D&G and the D&G LGBT Centre and, my old favourite, support the planning for and facilitation of Fresher’s Fayre. Being part of CUCSA has given me the opportunity to meet new people, network, build social and leadership skills and have a voice on my campus.

I have developed both professionally and personally, increasing my organization and management skills while building friendships and having fun. So the only question is why wouldn’t you want to get involved?”

If you’re interesting in becoming next year’s UWS Vice President or any of the other roles available on the CUCSA exec then get your nomination form in by May 4th!

Sam (far left) with some other CUCSA executive members at las year's Masquerade ball

Sam (far left) with some other CUCSA executive members at last year’s Masquerade ball

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