Why You Should Get Involved with SERC’s Students’ Union

At SERC, we understand that there’s more to college life than studies and that this new chapter in your academic journey brings with it an opportunity to meet new people, to develop new friendships, to have fun, to try something new and to build on your professional and personal skills. SERC’s Students’ Union (SU) will help to do that and enrich your college experience.

Speaking about the Students’ Union and what it offers Ross Currie, SERC Student Engagement Officer, said “All SERC students are automatically a member of the SU upon their enrolment, which means they can avail of student perks such as student discounts, join SU clubs and societies and take part in any SU activity.

“The SU offers the College’s students the opportunity to gain more from their time here, such as making a positive change to their place of study by becoming an elected member of the Student Leadership Team or becoming a Class Representative. Not only does this allow our students to make a positive contribution to SERC, but it also helps them greatly, both in their personal and professional development.

Ross added, “We also host fundraisers and food drives, some are annual, such as our Movemeber campaign and our Christmas food bank donations, but we also respond to global humanitarian crises such as the war in Ukraine and the Earthquakes in Syria and Turkey, which gives our students the chance to make a real positive impact on their local community, as well as wider, global issues.”

“Being part of the SU means you can join our various established clubs and societies. We will also work with you to help you create your own, giving you the opportunity to meet other students with shared interests or experiences.”

Ross concluded by saying, “SERC’s Students’ Union plays a significant part in student life here at the College. We encourage students to get involved and avail of the activities and opportunities on offer which complement not only their studies, but also their wellbeing whilst they are here and often when they progress to employment or further studies.”

One of the first events on the SU calendar will be the annual freshers fair, an event that gives students both new and returning the chance to network, get speaking to local organisations about their physical and mental health, as well as the chance to sign up for various volunteering opportunities that helps bolster their skills, boost their confidence and overall help their wellbeing.

The SU also has dedicated recharge rooms for all college students in the Bangor and Downpatrick campuses, furnished with specialist resources and equipment, featuring both a physical and a virtual quiet area to help students to self-manage their symptoms, including meditation facilities, light and music sensory therapy, a weighted blanket to help treat anxiety, access to a virtual private area for bespoke meditation and relaxation support and access to self-help information.

To find out more about the Students’ Union be sure to check out the News and Events section of the website and follow their social media platforms- SERC SU is on Facebook, Twitter/X, and Instagram.

Visit www.serc.ac.uk to unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.