DCUSU Election Manifesto Booklet

ELEC ELECTIONS 2019 POLLS OPEN FROM 10AM MARCH 5TH UNTIL 3PM ON MARCH 7TH VOTE IN ORDER OF PREFERENCE 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 on DCU LOOP

2019

Christine Farrell  DCU Students Union Presidential Campaign

Hello! My name is Christine Farrell and I am a final year Bachelor of Business Studies student from Dublin, and this year I am running to be the next president of DCU Students Union. I have loved every second of the past four years that I have spent here in DCU with any involvement I have had on campus. I have truly met some brilliant people and would love nothing more than to be able to give back to this University by becoming your students union president. My mix of experience, passion and hard work ethic fully equip me to being the best person for this role.

I have highlighted below my main aims and objectives should I be elected. If you have any questions in relation to my manifesto please contact me +353 85 112 0873 Christine.farrell64@mail.dcu.ie

FREE GYM CLASSES Free gym classes using our brilliant new purpose built U building.

INCREASED ENGAGEMENT WITH THE SU THROUGH DAILY EVENTS MOTIVATION MONDAYS · guest speakers and stream TED talks in the students union on Mondays FOOD MARKET TUESDAYS · Building on Vito’s introduction of food truck Tuesdays, I aim to have a food market on campus every Tuesday WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS · On all campuses I would hope that wellness Wednesdays continue with activities such as live music, yoga and mindfulness colouring available to students GET TONED THURSDAYS · Free gym classes for students run on Thursdays FUN FRIDAYS · For those students left on campus, I would love to introduce fun Fridays where events aimed at international students or those who stay on campus for the weekend to let them experience all of what Dublin has to offer.

NEW INTRA PORTAL I aim to work with the INTRA office in their introduction of a new INTRA portal to replace the existing, outdated portal.

REDUCED LIBRARY FINES I aim to replace the current â‚Ź3 library entrance fee with one free pass per student per semester and the fine only applying after that.

ALUMNI NETWORKING EVENT Work with the Alumni office here in DCU by creating annual alumni networking events Text placeholder

INNOVATION HUB I want to use our innovation Hub in the U to remind students that any degree program can benefit from innovative students be it science, engineering, computing, language, nursing or teaching.

A FEW OTHER MINOR PROJECTS THAT I HOPE TO INTRODUCE INCLUDE: more microwaves an ATM in the U building higher standard kept in terms of cleanliness in the library bathrooms an improvement in the amount of water fountains on campus better discounts in the on campus newsagent for the use of sustainable keepcups strive to work on existing and new campaigns in areas such as the treatment and pay for our nurses, the Gaeltacht grant, LGBQT rights, mental health awareness and student transport costs.

CHRISTINE FOR PRES

Adam Healy BA Joint Honours Year 3 Running For: SU Presdient

Hi there, my name is Adam Healy, this year’s Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty Rep. I am a third year English and History student from Meath and I am running to be your next Students’ Union President. My manifesto will be aimed the majority of the student body, but I’m sure that it can’t cover the near 17,000 students we have here. In this case, if anyone has any questions or queries, please contact adam.healy47@ mail.dcu.ie or 086 0394328. These are my main points, but a more detailed manifesto can be found on the campaign’s Facebook page.

Mind Over Matter Festival – I would like to organise a huge event on campus during Body and Soul Week, to wrap it up. We would have live acoustic and chilled out music playing early in the day, and DJs and dance music is introduced in the evening, much like the balls we have already, miming the Body and Soul Festival we have here in Dublin.

Open ‘the’ Door Policy – At the moment, the SU have a fantastic open door policy, where someone is there in the offices with an open door if any student has any issue. My plan is to maintain this, but also clearing out the old FM space next door to the GLA SU, where any student can meet with a sabbatical officer privately, without the fear of being seen or heard by anyone else. Currently, the large windows and open space make it very hard to allow students to come to a sabbat’s door privately.

First Aid Classes – Like Smart Consent classes, I would roll out free first aid courses in DCU for its students.

This would be a great skill for students to have, especially at events and for sports teams. It is a great skill to have in a working and family environment, and would be superb for student development.

DCU Healthy – There is a wide variety of aspects this cover. I want to bring DCU Healthy into the eyes of the students by introducing new initiatives and ideas throughout the year. This would start by putting water fountains in the library, so the student doesn’t have to leave the library to have access to water. I will introduce a trial week, where in the middle of a lecture, the lecturer pauses, reminds everyone to stand up, stretch and drink some water. This sixty second break allows students to re-engage with the lecture. If this is successful, we could look at bringing it in to every lecture.

Disability Officer – In recent years, we saw the introduction of a Sustainability Officer at Class Rep Council.

Much like residential reps and an Irish Officer, we cover all things that DCU stands for at CRC. I would like to implement an Disability Officer. Their role would entail someone to represent and discuss issues such as access and equal education. They would take the other reps concerns and bring them forward, ensuring action is taken and their issues are being dealt with.

Cian Conroy BA Joint Honours Year 3 Running For: VP for Welfare & Equality

Hi, my name Cian Conroy and I am running for the position of VP for Welfare and Equality Officer, because I’ve seen from first hand experience the problems we face as students. I want every student in DCU to be happy, because you can’t put a price on happiness. Through my manifesto, I will try and ensure that all students are helped in any and every way possible.

Commuter Hub: Communters are one of the main groups of people who drop out of college. There are many contributing factors to this, but one of the biggest is that they feel like they’re not part of the college, that they don’t have any friends, that they don’t have anything to do. I want these students to feel like DCU is the place for them. That they feel like DCU has things on offer that will make them feel like they belong.

I want to introduce a Commuters Hub as an area for commuters to make there food, have a cup of tea and just a place to mingle and make new friends. It would also lower costs for these students as they wouldn’t have to be eating unhealthy fast food the whole time. The college experience is just as important as the degree at the end of the day.

Inclusive Sex Education: Sex is a big part of college. In DCU we have a pleather of information available about how to have safe sex with talks available on STI’s and contraceptive methods. One thing that is not available in DCU is pure sex educations for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Sex in a major confidence builder and a bigger confidence breaker. I want DCU Certified Sex Education information to be readily available for all students in DCU regardless of their sexual orientation.

Assisting people to quit smoking: Smoking has unfortunately become part of college culture. It is not only bad for your bank, but it is also detrimental for your health and the ones around you. In order to change the big, you must change the small. I want to bring in measures to help people quit smoking, be it in the form of talks, workshops and even through counselling. Smoking is very common in DCU so I think it’s important to help lower the amount of people smoking.

DCU Accommodation: Trying to find Accommodation near DCU is very difficult. One of the main ways of acquiring accommodation is through the DCU Accommodation page. From my experience and from stories I’ve heard from others, this page is very difficult to work with as people are taking advantage of these students by advertising extortionate rents. Something needs to be done about this, measures need to be put in place to make sure students are getting a fair price. And to make students know exactly what the house is like before travelling halfway across the country to view it.

VP FOR WELFAIR & EQUALITY My name is Aisling Fagan (she/her) and I am your current Vice President for Welfare and Equality and I am looking to be re-elected!

During my 3 years as a student in DCU, I fully immersed myself in society life; from RAG, to Suas, to Enactus, to HeadstARTS, I found my passion, and that passion is helping people.

My year has been the most unforgettable rollercoaster, and I have loved every minute of it. The job has challenged me in ways I never thought imaginable, but it has also been an incredible experience, has opened my mind and taught me so much about what is realistically achievable in a year and how much time and effort goes into running campaigns, creating policies and making long term change. I have made mistakes and learned from them and have seen what works and what doesn’t. This year I would hope to build on the training I have already received and continue to build on the work that I, and the officer before me, have done. Â

I want to build on this years Consent Workshops and continue to work towards getting consent education embedded within the university structures and would hope to have class reps, SLC, CLC, and clubs & societies committees all trained in SC. Consent should not be an addition, it should be an ethos. I would continue to work with the Ending Sexual Harassment and Violence in Third Level Education (ESHTE) project and would hope to work with SS&D to develop a structured reporting system for sexual assault survivors. Disclosure training for staff & students would be beneficial, as would a harm reduction campaign for alcohol and drugs.

Tackling anti-social behavior on campus and toxic 'group chat culture' is also a priority.

This year I would hope to work with the Diversity & Inclusion Office to offer gender identity and expression training for staff and students. I would also look into the feasibility of the on campus pharmacy stocking PrEP & PeP and having Rapid HIV testing on campus to reduce the stigma around getting tested.

I would like to conduct an Accessibility audit with AHEAD, particularly in the U which should be a space for all.

I would like to work with the Teaching Enhancement Unit on Universal Design Learning to make learning materials more accessible to all

I would like to continue to provide a safe space for students to come when they need help, support, advice and assistance. I would like to create better visibility and awareness of supports that are available to students. I would like to work with the International & INTRA office on better support for students going abroad and on INTRA and utilise online office hours as a resource for those who can't be on campus. I would also like to look into having quiet spaces on all campuses for students.

I propose conducting a university-wide mental health survey to investigate what it stemming the MH epidemic.

Giving students the opportunity for training such as ASSIST & Mental Health First Aid is essential. Ensuring students are informed about their rights as a tenant is key, as is supporting and guiding students in finding accommodation and continuing to lobby the government on the homeless and housing crisis. I would like to create awareness around current policies, continue with campaign weeks and working closely with the DCU LGBTQ+ community.

My passion, enthusiasm, confidence and commitment have grown enormously since I was elected last March, and I would love if you could give me the opportunity to let that grow further. I am committed to working tirelessly once more to represent you the students on DCU to the very best of my ability. I believe my experience of case work, representing students on local and national boards and committees, running campaigns, working with staff and senior management and the element of continuity make me the best candidate for the job of VP for Welfare and Equality.

I would ask that you please re-elect Aisling for Welfare & Equality on March 5th, 6th and 7th.

Aisling xx

About me Hi there! My name is Cindee Luna Chin, and I want to be your Vice-President for Welfare and Equality. I’m a third-year Politics and Law student, originally from Wexford. During my time at DCU I have been supported by the resources available, and I want to build on them even more. In my three years here my passion for helping people has only grown stronger. I volunteer weekly for a charity where I help develop a peer-led mentoring scheme, and I want to bring my experience from that over to DCU. I believe my personal experiences, approachability, dedication, and passion makes me the right person for this job, and I want to provide everyone with the supports they need to have their best time in DCU.

Manifesto Mental Health I know firsthand that finding your way around the college is not something that’s only limited to first years. It’s difficult for any student to balance their workload and social and personal life, and it can be difficult to talk to people about these issues, especially if they might not relate to it. This is why I propose a peer-led mentoring scheme, available to any student, and pair them with another DCU student. I hope the addition of this resource will help alleviate the strain on the counselling service, and give them the chance to help more students, and shorten appointment waiting times.

Diversity I want to hold more diversity weeks and work harder with societies promoting diversity and representing minorities to promote and embrace the diverse culture around DCU. If elected I will be the first woman ethnic minority to be a Sabbatical Officer in DCU.

Accommodation Accommodation is an ongoing issue for DCU students, and it’s a big problem. I want to continue current Welfare and Equality Officer Aisling’s proposal for a part-time Accommodation Officer to be employed, and they will be there to help with any accommodation related issues, and help you budget your finances.

Also If elected, I want to continue the consent workshops that are currently held and make them mandatory for first years. Additionally, I want to expand Irish Sign Language classes across the campuses. I will have an open door policy, as I want anyone to be able to come to me with anything big or small, even for tea and a chat.

Conclusion I would not have made it through DCU without all the support I received, and I want to build on these supports that helped me. I endeavour to equally represent all the students here, and I will communicate and listen to students to find what issues are topical in order to help make sure everyone has the best time they can in DCU. My manifesto will evolve as time goes on but I will work diligently to ensure that everyone is supported, represented, and given opportunities to grow and learn. I would love for you to Vote Cindee #1 on March 5th, 6th, and 7th.

Manifesto

Academic Affairs

Who Am I?

My name is Callaghan Commons. I am the current Vice President for Academic Affairs and this year I am running for re-election. I have previously held the positions of Science & Health Faculty Rep, Chair of Class Rep Council and class representative, for my course Analytical Science, twice. Furthermore, I was actively involved with societies such as RAG and Cancer Soc.

What I want to do?

Feedback - The Irish Survey of Student Engagement and Student-Staff Forums have shown that feedback is a continuous issue for students. The current policy on feedback merely says that feedback on assignments will be given to students in a timely manner. If elected I want to make feedback one of my main priorities for the year. I want to work with staff to set out a framework and best practices for the time frame and content of feedback. This allow student to know what to expect from feedback of assessments and be able to apply this feedback to their next assessment.

Student Partnership Agreement - A Student Partnership Agreement would be an arrangement between the university and the Students’ Union to make sure that the student voice is at the heart of everything the university does. Student Partnership Agreements have been successful in Trinity College and across the UK. In a year where the university will appoint a new President it is important that student partnership is ensured.

Online Distance Learning Student Representation - DCU has many students that are not based on campus due to being online students. I wish to ensure that proper and effective representation is giving to these students. I want to work with the Vice President for Engagement & Development to increase ODL Student

representation with class reps and look into the feasibility of introducing a new part time Faculty Representation for DCU Connected Students.

Don’t Drop Out, Drop In - This year I ran a new campaign called “Don’t Drop Out, Drop In”. The aim of this campaign was to make first year students who were having a difficult time adjusting to third level education aware of the various supports and services available to them in DCU. The campaign was a success and saw engagement from many students who were considering dropping out of DCU. I would like to run this campaign again this year and make it bigger by introducing budgeting workshops, cookery courses and have pop-up information stands around campuses.

Careers Week - This year I successfully ran a Careers Week in partnership with the Careers Service. This campaign saw 29 events run over 5 days that catered to all 5 faculties, online distance learners and postgraduate students. If re-elected I want to use this approach to this campaign again to ensure a high quality of events are run that are beneficial to all students. I also want to focus on the promotion of the week to ensure that more students are aware of the campaign and interact with the events that may be of benefit.

Ailish Keating BA in Economics, Politics & Law Year 3 Running For: VP for Academic Affairs

My name is Ailish Keating and I am a final year EPL student hoping to become your next VP for Academic Affairs.

Why Academic Affairs?

Firstly, my years in DCU have been spent experiencing all the great things the SU has to offer. I want to be able to give back to an institution that has made my experience in DCU as amazing as possible.

Secondly, I believe student politics is the future of national level policies. In the past year we have had student action, like what we saw in Shanowen Shakedown, create the basis for national level legislation regarding rent caps. Students are the ones are the ones shaping policies!

Finally, as much as college is all about personal growth and experiences, academics are the reason students are there. I believe academic issues can fall by the wayside until they become too big for students to cope with and I want to fix this.

How Will I Do This?

Multi-Discipline Learning Centres These centres would be run similarly to the current maths learning centre but across all disciplines, accounting for all skill sets. The centres would be run by postgraduate students, which would be mutually beneficial to both sets of students. Examples of these proposed clinics include, law essays and camera workshops.

Office Hours If elected, I plan to run a system similar to that of most lecturers. Each week I will have a designated time for ‘drop-in’ office hours on all campuses where my main focus will be the student at hand, running alongside the open door policy of the SU.

Careers Classes Most grad programmes applications and INTRA placement applications are due around late September/October and so having a careers class only in semester two, is too late.

If elected, I plan to work with the VP for Education and Placement to have careers classes implemented in semester one of final year and also in semester one of second year for INTRA option students.

Academic Advice Group If elected I plan to set up a working/advice group. Comprising of myself, all faculty reps and will be open for students to also apply.

The purpose of this group will be so I can aim to constantly improve and ensure my work is benefiting students.

Book Sharing App I plan to look into setting up an app/website where students can swap/sell their old books.

I plan to give paid employment to students from computing backgrounds (redbrick) to set up this app/website.

Part-Time Jobs Fair If elected I will push to have regular career fairs for part-time jobs.

Many students are in college and on placement for upwards of 30 hours a week. A huge amount of these placements are unpaid (eg nursing placements) and so part-time work is a necessity for most.

Thank you for reading! I welcome any questions, feel free to contact me.

Olivia Forde Bachelor of Religious Education and English Year 4 Running For: VP for Education & Placement

Vice President for Education and Placement 2019/2020 Manifesto My name is Olivia Forde, a current fourth year Bachelor of Religious Education and English student and I am running to be your next Vice President for Education and Placement on the DCU Students’ Union. I believe that I am well suited for this role as from my time in DCU I was an active class rep for my course for two years and the Education Faculty Rep on the DCUSU in my 3rd year. This is why I feel that the next step is Vice President for Education and Placement to give back to DCU and the students due to all the wonderful opportunities I have been given and hopefully allow others to gain opportunities that I had received.

Teacher & Nursing Appreciation Weeks

On separate weeks, I would love to build on the previous Appreciation Days to see the Appreciation Days developed in to a week as there was plenty of student from the different faculties who were not in lectures those particular days therefore not on campus. However, there were some students who were unfortunate to be in lectures all day and did not get to be involved and reap the rewards of Appreciation Day. Therefore Appreciation Weeks would benefit more students

Agencies Fair Days

Previous years have seen agencies and recruitment companies come in to show students what job opportunities are on offer for life after their degree. I would like to ensure that the different agencies and recruitment companies come in and talk to prospective students at least once throughout the year.

Student Collaboration

I would like to start student collaboration among courses where the 3rd and possibly 4th year students meet with 1st year student to offer advice and help. It will be extremely beneficial for students about to go out on placement to give the 1st students a more realistic idea of what to expect on placement. There is only so much a lecturer can tell students and it will be more beneficial to hear from actual students perspective. This will also make a connection between 1st year and older year students to help allow for more engagement.

First Aid and Manual Handling

I fully believe that all students should have a basic knowledge of first aid and manual handling, therefore I would like to work alongside the VP for Welfare and Equality to see First Aid and Manual Handling evening course to train students. It is a fantastic skill that everyone who gets the training can put on their CV for future job applications.

Intra Opportunities

Experiencing placement throughout college can guide a person toward their future careers, so that is why I would like to work on introducing Intra to courses that do not currently offer it in order for more students to have a work placement in their time in DCU.

VP for Engagement & Development

Who Am I? My name is Katie Fay, I am a final year Chemical & Pharmaceutical student and this year I am running for the position of VP for Engagement & Development. Currently I am the Science & Health Faculty Rep on the Students’ Union, in previous years I have been Class Representative for my course twice , Chairperson of the Science & Health Society for two years and have also held position of Secretary on the Society Life Committee.

What I want to do ?

Class Reps Firstly I would like to improve the class rep system by having reps elected as early as possible. I hope to do this by working closely with the faculty representatives to hold in-class elections and possibly hold a Q&A before elections to answer any queries students have about Class Rep Council and what being a rep involves. I would also like to have a class rep bonding trip off campus which has proved to be very beneficial in the past.

Events Coordinator If elected I would like to work with the SU President and the Manager of the OSL to ensure that an Events Coordinator is hired before the start of term. This role would ensure that DCUSU has a full-time staff member working solely on delivering the best events possible for DCU students in partnership with the Students’ Union sabbatical team. Furthermore, this ensures that the sabbaticals can dedicate more of their time to the representation of the students that they were elected to work on behalf of.

Campaign Crew Earlier this year the idea of a student action group was brought forward, however this idea did not come to fruition. If elected I hope to set up a ‘Campaign Crew’, essentially it would be

If elected I would like to work with the SU President and the Manager of the OSL to ensure that an Events Coordinator is hired before the start of term. This role would ensure that DCUSU has a full-time staff member working solely on delivering the best events possible for DCU students in partnership with the Students’ Union sabbatical team. Furthermore, this ensures that the sabbaticals can dedicate more of their time to the representation of the students that they were elected to work on behalf of.

Campaign Crew Earlier this year the idea of a student action group was brought forward, however this idea did not come to fruition. If elected I hope to set up a ‘Campaign Crew’, essentially it would be a working group which focuses on all campaigns run by the SU, be it the various weeks we have on campus such as Careers Week or KISS Week to the large national demonstrations for issues such as housing, Direct Provision, climate change etc. This gives all students a chance to engage in campaigns be it social media, picketing, how press releases work and all the inner workings of running a successful campaign.

Sustainability In 2020 DCU is set to become a single-use plastic free university and the first of its kind in Ireland. This came from the great work of DCU students themselves, if elected I hope to further this work by coming together with the Sustainability Office as well as the Sustainable Living Society.

DCU Volunteer Having met with the DCU Volunteer Coordinator and discussing various initiatives that are possible for the coming year, if elected I hope to create a stronger relationship between the Students’ Union and DCU Volunteer so that as many students as possible are reached and can get involved in volunteering on and off campus. As part of this I would hope to take part in the Volunteer Helpdesk that happens weekly so that there is an SU presence at all times.

Helen Wade DCUSU Election Manifesto Who am I? Hi there! My name is Helen Wade and I am running to be your new VP for Engagement and Development. I am a final year student of the Bsc in Education and Training programme. I am the current vice-chairperson for DCU Harry Potter Society, and I am also a current part time officer for the SU executive committee, holding the position of Class Rep Council Chairperson.

Why I am Standing for Election I am running for this position because I care extremely passionately about student engagement and inclusion. As a student who has been based on the Glasnevin and St. Pats Campuses, I understand the needs and issues of students across all campuses. I have highlighted the areas I intend to work on in the next section of this manifesto.

What I Intend to do If Elected 1. Student Engagement Working Group If I am elected, I intend to create a student engagement working group, consisting of students from all three campuses. The aim of this working group is to work with students to find out what they feel is lacking in terms of events, training, and try execute ideas.

2. Class Event Packages If elected, I will provide packages for class events, making the process of organizing big events easier and less stressful for the students.

3. Class Rep System/Class Rep Engagement As a former class rep, I understand the needs and issues of class reps. The class rep system has improved greatly this year, however, I will aim to further develop the system, introducing electronic sign in scanners for class rep council, and electing all

class reps by week 2 of semester 1. I will also ensure that class reps receive a “class rep pack� once they are elected, containing a handbook, a class rep hoodie, and other student essentials.

4. SPC Visibility I aim to increase engagement between campuses by running more exciting events on the St. Pats, and All Hallows campuses, to increase inclusion of all students. If elected I will complete the contracted office hours on St. Pats campus on a weekly basis, to ensure the general welfare of the St. Pats and All Hallows students is taken care of.

5. Mature Student Engagement As a mature student myself, I found it hard to engage with student life right away, the mature student demographic is overlooked and sometimes forgotten. If elected I plan to hold mature student seminars at the start of semester, to let the mature students know the supports available to them, and encourage them to become involved in clubs, societies, and general college life.

6. DCU Sustainability If I am elected, I will ensure that all the correct waste disposal bins are made available across the three campuses. It has been a big issue this past semester.

7. DCU Volunteer Fair If elected, I plan to hold volunteer fairs in semester 1 and 2, with a broad range of options available to suit students.

Hazel Byrne BSc Marketing, Innovation & Technology Year 1 Running For: DCU Business School Rep

Hello everyone! My name is Hazel Byrne and I am a first year MINT student. I am 21 years old, originally from Meath but also originally enrolled in another Dublin City University that was not indeed DCU! (I know, shock horror). From my experience at that college, as well as the year I have had as class rep for MINT1 and from working with students and the SU, I am running for Business Faculty Representative. I have gained so much experience in my time here, it would be my absolute pleasure to represent you all this coming year! Below are my ideas for what I intend to do if I was elected...

COMMUNICATION – I want to create a better flow of communication from the SU à Faculty Reps à Class Reps. I hope that this will allow events and opportunities for all business students to be better communicated and allow them to be more engaged in events that will benefit them in their studies but also in their chosen industries, not forgetting some amazing social events.

Every month, I will hold an informal meeting with all class reps that allows them to discuss any issues and concerns they have within the school/university. The minutes of these meetings will be emailed every week in a newsletter to all business students, including any upcoming events in the university that would be beneficial for business students to attend; just as I have done weekly for my own course as class rep.

INTEGRATION – A huge number of Erasmus students come to DCU every year and especially to our wonderful Business School. My aim is to work with students and societies to engage both International students and Irish students into working together both inside the classroom and out. We can not only teach them what DCU Business School has to offer, but also learn from their experiences and cultures!

By working with lecturers to ensure real integration between all students within the classroom, as well as organising events along with relevant societies, I hope to bring some fun to outside of the classroom as well.

REPRESENTATION – I would love to be the voice that supports and represents all students that pass through the doors of DCU Business School. By creating a strong network of class reps and engagement between courses in all years, I wish to bring any issues/ideas students have for how to improve the school, the academics and the overall experience of our Business School to a reality.

Issues such as the structure of courses, timing of assignments or general infrastructure of the building I hope to bring forward, to ensure that the students get the best of the best! (Yes, I will do my best to get those chairs fixed I promise). I also aim to have a close relationship with the various business-related societies in DCU, but also with business students within various other important societies so that the business school and its students can feel represented throughout the entire university.

Charles Kinsella BA in Accounting & Finance Year 1 Running For: DCU Business School Rep

Application for Business Faculty Rep.

My name is Charlie Kinsella. I am an AF1 student living in Drogheda, Co. Meath. This means that I commute daily to the capital for college. The short- comings in public transport will be a pillar of my campaign. I work in an accounting firm in the city center and I am able to work around my college lectures. I am very fortunate to be able to do this- especially in an area that I want to eventually work in full time.

Outside of that, I play pitch & putt, have a pint and play at open mic nights down the town.

I am standing because I want to be able to change the injustices that students in my faculty are subjected to on a daily basis. I am frustrated with the lack of housing supply, poor public transport, difficulties in getting a part- time job that is applicable to their future careers and I believe that I can put solutions in place to reduce the negative impact of these issues on my friends and faculty.

If elected I will pursue the following policies • • • • •

Extend the Dublin Bike Scheme to DCU End drop off only bus stops Create a Housing Hub specifically for DCU students Create a Jobs hub for DCU students Work to establish a more transparent, effective governance structure in DCUSU

Tadgh Jenkins Bachelor of Law & Politics Year 1 Running For: Humanities & Social Sciences

Manifesto for Election of Tadgh Jenkins for Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty Representative for DCU Students Union

Who am I?

My name is Tadgh, and I’m a first year Law and Politics student. I’m also known as ‘Ted from Shite Nite’. I’m an active class rep and member of the DCUSU Welfare Crew, and over the last few months I’ve been involved in various different SU campaigns such as Save Our Shepherd, registering students to vote, Raise the Roof, and NICE Week.

What can I do for you?

I can provide you with a visible Rep presence, and I will offer a Faculty Rep clinic every three weeks on both Glasnevin and Saint Pats campus to give you a clear point of contact to raise any concerns and ask any questions.

My dedication is to the students of DCU, and I have several aims for the year ahead:

- Media students need a jobs and apprenticeships fair. I would aim to recruit leading figures and companies from the relevant markets to provide media students with networking opportunities.

- The incumbent Oifigeach Gaeilge has advised me that students would like more Irish signage across the campuses, particularly on Saint Pats, and I will work with the relevant authority within the college to make sure that the inclusion of Gaeilge into daily life continues.

- First Aid qualifications not only make you more employable, but are practical and First Aid knowledge can be useful when you least expect it. I intend to bring in First Aid trainers across the campuses for skills days, where you can learn the basics and essentials.

- I will continue to campaign with the greater SU body against the Gaeltacht fees and treatment of students on placement, and for other issues that affect students in both the H&SS faculty and in others.

Still not sure?

Come and talk to me.

You can contact the team at tadgh4humanities@gmail.com and set up a time that suits you, or come along to any election event where I’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.

I’m passionate about providing the best possible representation for you, and giving H&SS a reputation as a faculty that listens to our needs.

Caoimhe O Carroll Bachelor of Civil Law (Law and Society) Year 1 Running For: Humanities & Social Sciences Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty Representative Manifesto Candidate : Caoimhe O’Carroll Who Am I? My name is Caoimhe O’Carroll and I am a first year BCL (Law and Society) student from Dun Laoghaire, Dublin. I am an outgoing and diligent person. I love sports, particularly GAA and rugby. I also love cycling, I cycle to and from college every day.* I have an eclectic taste in both music and podcasts and listen to them while walking my dog, Charlie. This is beginning to sound like an online dating profile so I’ll stop here. *disclaimer - my bike’s electric!

Why Am I Standing?

I have always had a keen interest in representative and leadership roles. It is easy to underestimate the impact a Students Union can have on the evolution of a university. This year we’ve seen, through campaigns such as “Save Our Shepherd” and “Standing With Nurses and Midwives”, how powerful student voices are. I want to utilize this power to improve the experience of all H&SS students.

What Do I Intend To Do If Elected?

Firstly, honesty and transparency are core values of mine. I hope to run a campaign that relies on realistic, achievable goals that have a direct, positive influence on DCU H&SS students across all campuses.

Secondly, as a first year student I have not encountered all the issues that H&SS students in later years may have. If elected I would be open to prioritizing and accommodating for pressing issues that face students of the faculty.

With that said, I have compiled a list of three objectives I would like to achieve during my term in office should I be elected; 1. Improve Facilities for Commuters: I would like to address the lack of convenient, affordable catering options for students that don’t live on campus. I would like to explore the possibility of kettle and microwave stations to accommodate for those commuters who have breaks of up to 5 hours. These facilities would allow students to heat prepacked meals and avoid unnecessary expenditure.

2. Expand Erasmus Options: On the whole DCU has a wide range of Erasmus opportunities. As Faculty Rep I would like to develop upon the existing links, across various courses and faculties, between DCU and other international institutions. I would hope to convince these institutions to extend their Erasmus policies to more courses based in the H&SS faculty.

3. Further Advance the Profile of the Students Union: As mentioned above, I have a deep appreciation for how powerful student voices can be. As a rep I would like to further the welfare, interests and priorities of both the H&SS faculty and the entirety of DCUs student population by collaborating across the SU with sabbatical officers and representatives alike. DCU’s Students Union is a wellestablished and respected body and as a representative I would like to promote the strength of its presence across all campuses.

About Me

Hi there, my name is Thomas Ward and this year I am running for the position of your Student Union Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty Representative! I’m from Dublin and currently in my second year of International Relations. I have gained only positive experiences whilst here from the unique sense of community we have in DCU! I am a Student Ambassador which is a position that allows me to immerse myself further into student life. Helping at events and providing information to prospective students gives me the chance to represent our university. Last year I was also class rep, giving me the opportunity to be a spokesperson for my class, lending me valuable experience in leadership, representing students and dealing with issues.

Manifesto Equality and Inclusivity We have many students on campus that make DCU a vibrant and welcoming society. We need to work on the issues that arise. I aim to do this by working closely with the VP for Welfare & Equality to make sure all humanities students are represented equally and that we can work together on campaigns that represent students.

An example of inclusion that I initiated was an organised lunch. I set one up for my class. It really helped my classmates find friends and become familiar with each other. I want to do this for my faculty. This would give them a chance to meet others and feel included.

Mental Health Mental health is a huge issue. DCU has been effective on advocating on mental health issues and I want to help build on that, with an extra emphasis on men’s mental health. Over the year I want to advocate on issues such as toxic masculinity and reminding men that their mental health is just as important as anyone else’s. I want to work with the exec and the societies to create new initiatives and give them the resources they need.

INTRA External learning is as important as academia in a lecture hall. I will meet with H&SS faculty chairs and look at avenues of extending INTRA where not in place.

Short term placements are available and I want to let you’s know what is offered and how to get involved.

Socializing and College Life From discussions, I empathise with those that find it difficult to find their feet in DCU. I want to inform on what events are happening on DCU, when they’re on and how to get involved. I want you to enjoy college and I will ensure that no one is left behind or

feels left alone.

On socializing and college life, attention should be paid to ensuring safety on nights out. I want to continue to work with the university to promote safety on nights out. Safe zone is an app which gives protection to students that encounter any emergencies- we need to spread that message and get more students using the Safe zone app.

#WinWithWard

Josh Malone BSc in Enterprise Computing Year 3 Running For: Engineering & Computing Rep

Engineering & Computing Faculty Representative Manifesto My name is Josh Malone and I am a 3rd year Enterprise Computing student. I am also the current Vice-Chair of the Raising & Giving Society and P.R.O. of the Redbrick Society, as well as one of the 3rd year EC Class Reps. I am currently completing my INTRA in SAP in CItywest so unfortunately I cannot be as present on campus as I’d like to be for this campaign, although my very capable campaign team will ensure that any questions students may have about me or my intentions for the role are answered.

I am running for E&C Faculty Rep as I feel I can make a unique difference that has previously been missing in the role. The role of faculty rep is to be accessible to the students in the faculty, as well as maintaining an ongoing & close relationship with DCU SU and the college’s educational board. I am standing because as a 3rd year student, I have apt knowledge of both the good and bad within the faculty and I know who I need to speak to in order to make changes. I also feel that my strong link with society life within DCU has given me a close connection with the teams in charge of making changes within the college (DCU SU, SLC, CRC, Board Members). These things, combined with ensuring that anyone in the faculty can come to me in confidence, make me a candidate that can secure a stronger link between the students and the faculty itself.

My intentions for if I’m elected stem directly from this. If I’m elected as Engineering & Computing Faculty Rep, I intend to: 1. Initiate a weekly email informing students of things going on during the week, relevant information to the faculty, supports for students and extracurricular activities that students can get involved in. Along with addressing issues raised with me either by the students in the faculty or by parties such as the SU, lecturers etc.

2. Maintain a constant presence on campus and ensure everyone in the faculty knows who I am, in the case that they need to come to me for anything.

3. Implement a forum for student feedback and observations on all things faculty related. Allowing for public discussion that highlights the key issues that I need to focus on.

4. Work with the relevant parties to ensure the facilities for the faculty are of suitable standard - whether this be physical materials/facilities within the buildings, or online material/resources available to our students.

Liviu Nastase BSc in Electronic and Computer Engineering Year 2 Running For: Engineering & Computing Rep

Manifesto

My name is Liviu and I am running for the position of Engineering and Computing Faculty Rep because I really want to see the university be the best it can be.

As for my background, for a period of 4 years in high school, I was a class rep, solving many issues my classmates had. Also in my last 2 years, a representative for my entire high school for “Technological High School Vasile Sav” to the heads of school.

For more recent experience, I was a class rep in first year for CAM1 (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering) and at present I am a class rep for ECE2 (Electronic and Computing Engineering). During this period of time, I accumulated experience in listening to the voice of students and taking the necessary actions to make the academic environment to a better experience for everyone.

If elected I would aim to: •Improve the communication between students and the faculty rep. (Once a semester, I will have a meeting which will involve brainstorming for solutions regarding the problems that class reps and students raised during the semester on top of the already in place Faculty Hour).

•Obtaining more certifications for students from Engineering and Computing schools. For example, CISCO, NETACAD and similar certifications.

•Obtain access for students in Electronic and Computer Engineering and Computing students in both the ECE computer labs and the Computing building’s computer labs.

I want to be your faculty rep to help progress this university and make both the Engineering and Computing schools ones we can all be proud of. All I need from you is to vote for me, LIVIU, as Engineering and Computing Faculty Rep.

Emily McNamara Bachelor of Early Childhood Education Year 3 Running For: Institute of Education Rep ​ lacement Workshops P From experience with placement and from information from other courses, I have noticed that many of us are heading out into placement with only information provided to us by our lecturers. I would like to introduce placement workshops, these would include students from second year or third year coming into first year classes to give information about their experience. This will give a greater understanding on what is expected while on placement,and the opportunity to ask questions that they may not feel comfortable asking their lecturers.

Class Rep Online Forum I would like to introduce an online forum as a place for students to gather information about the running of the CRC so that they are aware of how to bring up motions for discussion and feel comfortable doing so when they attend. I would also use this forum for students to discuss issues that they may be facing and to give advice on how to handle certain situations within their class groups, as well as ask questions.

Education Escape I would like to introduce a group discussion opportunity to courses while out on placement. This will be directed at each course and will be held on a day or afternoon that suits people. If possible I would like a lecturer for the course to be present if they are willing so that they can give professional advice to students. Tea, coffee and biscuits would be on offer for tea and chats. It will be a means of relaxing and clearing worries from their minds.This will also give the students a chance to offer each other advice and give them further confidence in their abilities.

Class Rep Individual Meetings I would also like to meet one on one with class reps to hear any difficulties they may be facing and to support them in any way that I can. I would like to be a friendly face for them to approach and ask questions. I would maintain contact with the reps through a facebook page and offer to meet one on one whenever they need me. I believe that one to one meetings will benefit new class reps in particular as I have plenty of advice to offer.

Teacher Appreciation Week Each year this day is held and from talking with people from the various courses I believe it can often clash with lectures and placement and therefore is not of benefit to the students directly. I would like to work alongside the VP for Education and Placement to organise a teacher appreciation week. This will allow for everyone to avail of at least one activity as we hold one each day at a convenient time.

Education Faculty Ball I would like to hold this ball on a Friday so it does not clash with placement. I feel like a new outlook to improve the ball would encourage more people to attend and enjoy it. I would like to find entertainment outside of just a DJ.

Seán Smyth Bachelor in Education Year 2 Running For: Institute of Education Rep

Who am I? My name is Seán Smyth. I am a second year BEd and I am running to be your next Education Faculty Rep. I am confident, hard-working, and proactive. I am class rep for BEd2. As part of this role, I send out weekly e-mails, organise guest speakers, and bring motions forward at class rep council.

Why am I standing for election?

I am not standing for election for my CV or for an SU jumper, I am standing for election to ensure that the voices and opinions of our faculty are heard. As Education faculty rep, I want to make sure you are represented on your Student’s Union. Whether you’re a part-time student, a first year, or final year, I will ensure that your voice is heard. I have worked hard to do this for BEd2 and if elected, I promise to do this for every student within the faculty.

What do I intend to do if elected?

Increased Communication My main goal is to increase communication between the SU and the Education faculty. I plan to do this by sending out a weekly e-mail. These e-mails will give updates tailored to suit the needs of the Education faculty. Doing this for BEd2 has definitely increased their engagement with the SU.

Additionally, if elected, I will arrange regular meetings with the faculty’s class reps. I plan to have at least 4 meetings per semester. This will create a space where specific problems within the Education faculty can be addressed.

Furthermore, I will establish a faculty hour, where I will meet with members of the faculty on a weekly basis to discuss any issues that students may have. This will ensure that issues within the faculty can be brought up and addressed at SU executive meetings.

Events Many of us will undertake placement throughout our time in college and therefore having the typical college experience can prove difficult. If elected, I will organise and ensure that events are planned within the Education faculty.

Furthermore, I will ensure that SU events take place on SPC. This will ensure that members of the faculty are given the opportunity to engage with the SU, something which does not always happen.

Guest Speakers As some students in the faculty are not interested in going out etc., I will arrange events that will suit all students. One way I hope to do this is through guest speakers.

For example, as class rep I have arranged @littlemissteacherblog to come in and speak to BEd2 before they head out on placement. If elected, I will bring guest speakers in from all areas of education. For example, talks about teaching abroad, Droichead, and adult education.

Placement Support If elected, I hope to liaise with the school placement office and Student Support and Development to increase the support we receive on the run up to school placement. I hope to increase the preparation we receive before placement and the support we receive while out on placement.

Sania Amjad Position Contested: Science & Health Faculty Rep About Me My name is Sania Amjad, I am a 3rd year Chemical & Pharmaceutical student and I am running to be the next Science & Health Faculty Rep. Over the last three years in DCU I have been a class rep for two years and I have also been involved with the Science & Health Society. During my three years in DCU I believe I have gained the leadership, organisation and communication skills necessary for the role of Science & Health Faculty Rep. However, most importantly I enjoy being able to help people and in the position of Science & Health Faculty Rep I know I will be able to help many students across the faculty with any issues they have through effective communication and teamwork.

What I Plan To Do First years I wish to ensure that more ice-breaker sessions and mixers are held during Orientation and Fresher’s Week. In my first year, there was no ice-breakers or opportunity to meet everyone in the course as the majority of first year science courses are common for the first year and are all pooled together in T101 for all lectures. This can be very intimidating and very difficult to make friends in your course. I believe that more events for science students in the first few weeks of college would make it easier for students to make friends within their class and avoid issues such as isolation and dropping out of college.

Time Management Workshops Science courses are some of the hardest that DCU has to offer and we put a lot of time and effort into all the lab reports and exams during our time here. In the past I have found it extremely difficult to manage assignments and reports on top of lecture modules and numerous exams during both Christmas and summer periods.

I would like to introduce these time management workshops to help students balance their time efficiently so that they can achieve the best results possible. The workshops will include support on lab report writing, how to reference correctly, time management of course load on top of jobs and other extracurricular activities.

INTRA Talks I plan to develop Katie’s very successful run of INTRA talks to include more courses such as Physics, Maths, Psychology and Science Eds. These talks allow students to meet and chat with other students who have already completed their INTRA placements, give tips for

support on lab report writing, how to reference correctly, time management of course load on top of jobs and other extracurricular activities.

INTRA Talks I plan to develop Katie’s very successful run of INTRA talks to include more courses such as Physics, Maths, Psychology and Science Eds. These talks allow students to meet and chat with other students who have already completed their INTRA placements, give tips for interviews and a student perspective on the entire INTRA process.

I also hope to introduce INTRA tours out to companies that are willing to take on students on for INTRA. I would aim to have these tours for third year students in the faculty that have INTRA. The tours would be done in semester one before students go out on their INTRA in semester two. These tours would give students the chance to experience inside of a manufacturing lab before going out on INTRA themselves. This would ensure that students feel they are better prepared before they leave for INTRA. I believe this experience would be extremely beneficial to students as a third year student who is about go out on INTRA, I feel I am unaware of what to expect when I begin work.

Science Building Facilities I hope to provide more locker space in the building to save students from having to go between the nursing and science building and prevent the need to leave bags and valuables in the cubby holes unattended outside some of the labs.

Nurses I hope to continue to improve communications between nurses on placement with the staff in DCU as currently students feel they are not getting enough support and would like to be in contact with the university more often during placement.

After talking to nursing student I would also like to tackle the issue of unpaid work placement especially for those with 40 hour/week placement. Katie aimed to introduce workshops for all nurses which would teach them how to deal with violence and aggression from patients nut due to time limits could do so and I would like to take this idea forward as I feel it is a vital part for nurses going into placement.

I also want to introduce a Book Sale Scheme as in first year science students are made to buy textbooks for their modules. These textbooks can be very expensive at prices which a lot of students can afford. I want to put together a list of students in the years above that would be willing to sell their textbooks that they don’t need any more to first years to allow them to save on money.

Science & Health Ball The annual Science & Health ball is a vital annual event for students from all years and disciplines in our faculty. I wish to continue this event with a new perspective and have a theme dedicated to the ball every year while keeping the essence of the science ball the same.

Why Should You Vote for Me I am an extremely hard-working and passionate individual who enjoys working with class reps and fellow students in order to try make their university experience fun and enjoyable. I also have a strong passion for DCU and the science and health faculty as I believe it is an essential part of all student’s college life and would like to continues the work being carried on with a new perspective. believe my experience with societies and as a class rep will be of huge benefit to me if I am successful in the elections.

Ciara Slevin Position Contested: Science and Health Faculty Rep About Me: My name is Ciara Slevin and I’m a 3rd year Physics with Biomedical Sciences student. During my years in DCU I have been greatly involved in the Science and Health Society, with my position currently being treasurer. I was elected class rep during my second year of college. I have picked up many new skills through societies and college life, my organisation, teamwork and independent work skills were developed through the Science and Health society, as well as learning great leadership skills as class rep. These are some of the key skills that I believe are vital for the role of Science and Health Rep.

Aims: INTRA I wish to continue with Katies successful INTRA talks from students who have completed INTRA to students currently preparing for INTRA. I would also like to try introducing more preparation for INTRA, through workshops and talks based on interview skills and what to expect in different job roles and companies. I plan to hold an information evening on students trying to obtain their own INTRA placement as this year a lot of students struggled to secure placement through the INTRA portal.

Reading Week I plan to make reading week as enjoyable for science students by hosting a movie night and teaming up with the Science and Health society to organise fun events to get everyone involved. I also plan to keep on Katie’s tea and coffee mornings in the science building.

Nurses It has been brought up that a lot of nurses feel neglected from DCU. I plan to work closely with the Nursing reps to work around placement and make sure that they get time to avail of coffee mornings and events planned. I plan to fight alongside full time and student nurses to help them achieve better conditions and pay.

Facilities Locker shortages are a common issue brought to everyone’s attention which I wish to tackle. I would like to get microwave facilities in the science building as a lot of students have a short break from their labs and queues during lunch time for a hot meal could cost them their break.

Science and Health Ball

It has been brought up that a lot of nurses feel neglected from DCU. I plan to work closely with the Nursing reps to work around placement and make sure that they get time to avail of coffee mornings and events planned. I plan to fight alongside full time and student nurses to help them achieve better conditions and pay.

Facilities Locker shortages are a common issue brought to everyone’s attention which I wish to tackle. I would like to get microwave facilities in the science building as a lot of students have a short break from their labs and queues during lunch time for a hot meal could cost them their break.

Science and Health Ball The annual Ball is something most students look forward to most during the year. I hope to follow along the steps of past reps in their organisation of the ball and try find a date most suiting to students on placements.

Why You Should Vote For Me: I am an extremely hard working and driven student who is bursting with many new ideas to help improve the overall day to day college experience for Science and Health students. I love to put myself out their and get involved in new opportunities presented to me and to give everything my all. These past three years in DCU have been some of my best and I would love to be able to help all students enjoy their time in DCU in any way I can.

David Martin BA Joint Honours (Law and Media Studies) Year 2 Running For: Clubs Officer

Dublin City University Student’s Union elections 2019 Manifesto - David Martin – Running for club’s officer position.

Who am I? My name is David Martin. I’m a second year Law and Media studies student. I am the secretary for the Cycling Club, and I have been the PRO Officer on the Club Life Committee this year. I joined the DCU Cycling Club because I love cycling. To get more involved in the club I ran for the role of secretary and was lucky to get it. At the Club Life Committee AGM, I ran for the role of PRO as I believed that I could assist clubs with their challenges such as budgeting and how to promote themselves. I have been lucky enough to be in that role since September 2018.

Why I am standing.

While on CLC I have come to know the way in which clubs are run in DCU, and some of the difficulties that are faced every year. I set up a Club Life Social Media page in the last few weeks to help promote clubs.

While representing 5 clubs on CLC I have learned that clubs require versatile people with no favouritism for one club over another, and I can provide this independent advice and guidance. I am standing for election because I believe that clubs in DCU deserve more recognition and promotion for their achievements, and that promotion can help them to grow, and discover new talents within the student body in DCU. What I intend to do if Elected.

If elected I intend to continue to grow the Club life social media to promote clubs, not only in the college but among other colleges. My plan is to bring in a social media advisor to guide clubs on how to promote themselves and to grow their social medias, to help them to increase their membership. I also hope to improve the budget system used by clubs to apply for funding to ensure that the process is as quick and easy as it can be, with the aim that clubs will have their funding secured before their competitive fixtures begin, which often does not happen currently. I would also like to encourage clubs to have a social night/social fixture with other clubs to encourage cross relations between clubs. I believe that I can achieve these aims as I see these to be issues that affect Clubs in DCU. I see the role of clubs’ officer to be very important for the development of clubs in DCU and hope that I get the chance to take on this exciting and challenging role.

Cian Hade Bachelor of Civil Law (Law and Society) Year 2 Running For: Socities Officer My name is Cian Hade and this March, I will be looking for your vote for the position of Societies Officer on next year’s DCUSU. I’m in my second year of BCL and I’ve now got two years of interacting with societies under my belt, as a committee member, as a society member and as an outsider.

In that time, I have seen the different practices and procedures employed by a variety of societies and that I think all societies would benefit from being aware of and that I would encourage them to implement themselves. This the basis for my first policy, what I like to call: The Society Handbook: Every society will have access to this handbook, and its primary purpose will be to advise societies on the rules governing their activities, so that society leadership is kept well informed and are prepared for any engagement with the bodies enforcing these rules. Additionally, this handbook will collate advice about society best practice, so that new societies and new society leadership come under less pressure when they start out, as they could find all this relevant information in one document.

Examples of this information would be: ● ● ● ●

DCU policies and procedures: on Alcohol, Data Privacy etc The Society Code of Conduct How to structure committee meetings, AGMs and EGMs and how to make sure votes are done fairly and justly.

Guidelines encouraging societies on how to improve transparency, sustainability, inclusivity, the fair division of responsibilities and supports for your membership’s mental and physical health, to name but a few. These sections will be drafted with reference to suggestions and feedback given by students and societies.

Accessibility: I want the Societies Officer to be seen as someone who is accessible, a member of the SU that is highly approachable and to that aim I will have two designated hour-long periods in a week, where I will be available to answer your questions one-on-one, listen to any problems that you or your society may be having, and any additional issues that you wish you to bring to the attention of the SU. One of these will be open to all students and the other will be for matters relating to the societies that fall under my purview as a member of the SLC. Support: I want this role to be a supportive one also, by trialling, and, hopefully, then implementing a support network for respective committee members in addition to the two meeting hours. These forums will give a platform for people in parallel roles to have a space, once a fortnight or every month to meet and discuss what’s happening and be surrounded by other people that know exactly what they’re going through and that can give them advice or support. This is in the aim that societies will feel more inclusive and that less people will end up feeling burnt out. This space will be a confidential one, and once a forum begins, I will then leave until the meeting’s end.

Name: Mark Mc Gee Candidate for: Societies Officer 1. Who am I – My name is Mark Mc Gee. I’m a second year Multimedia student. In my two years here in DCU, I have been heavily involved in society life and firmly believe it’s a vital part to making the most of your time here in university. With my involvement in Societies in DCU, I have managed to make a wide and diverse range of friends and connections that, without DCU societies, I would not be lucky enough to have.

2. Why I am running– I’m running for Societies Officer due to my drive for getting things done and seeing change here in DCU. I believe societies are one of the greatest ways to achieve this. From my experience as Chairperson of the International Erasmus Student Network DCU, I have acquired invaluable insight on how Societies are run in DCU, due to founding the society in my first year of study. Cat, the current Societies Officer, has been fantastic in her assistance to societies and I wish to build upon the progress that has been made. This manifesto attempts to outline my plans for the year ahead.

3. What I intend to do if elected 1. Office Hours During my time here at University, I found that meeting face to face with SLC representatives and Society Officers are a far better way of obtaining information I needed. Therefore, I believe that providing office hours during the week can be a great assistance to societies, especially at the early stages of a societies life. It would be a great benefit to provide a personal touch in getting to know a representative from each society within these office hours.

2.

Collaborations: I would like to provide societies with a better understanding of how to collaborate in making events and trips run smoothly. There is currently no way to get in touch with societies for collaborations, other than going to their event or sending an email that often is seen as spam. I know how difficult it is for societies to collaborate but also how beneficial collaborations can be for all societies involved.

3.

Administration: Because I have experience in running a society, I understand the administration processes behind the scenes. Not everything runs smoothly with the contact between societies and administration, with issues such as obtaining the correct information and upkeep being provided. I understand how important it would be to be there to check with societies that all information is up to date and as they desire it.

4.

Detailed Guides Society Guidebook - A guide on all the background information needed for running a society - whether this is the early stages/where to start, how to effectively run a society and other related information.

BOI Guide - Information on a step by step process on how to correctly register new societies with the Bank of Ireland on Campus. This can be the most complicated issue for societies at the beginning and leads to a lot of difficulties.

SORCHA NÍ CHONGHAILE

OIFIGEACH NA GAEILGE

About me/Fúm Féin Is mise Sorcha Ní Chonghaile agus is mac léinn dara bliana mé. Bíonn mé lonaithe ar an gcampas naomh phadraig de ghnáth ach caithim an-chuid de m’am saoire ag bogadh tríd na trí champais chun páirt a ghlacadh i gcumainn éagsúla! Táim ag déanamh staidéar ar an Oideachas agus bhí mé mar Oifigeach na Gaeilge 2018/19.

Experience/Taithí I have a background in Gaeilge and encouraging more to come to the language. Event organisation is a key element in campaigning for representation of the language and I believe that my past experience in various organisations in similar roles stands to me now to complete such a task. Policy formation is my expertise.

I believe strong policy and transparent policy allows for strong mandates from members of the union to complete a campaign and work on their behalf.

So what do I want to do? / Cad atá mé ag iarraidh déanamh?

Tá mo phlean símplí go leor agus seo iad na rudaí atá mé chun déanamh má fhaighim isteach mar Oifigeach na Gaeilge arís: 1. MIC LÉINN IDIRNAISIÚNTA Táim ag iarraidh níos mó a dhéanamh chun cinntiú go mbeidh tuilleadh mic léinn an ag úsáid gaeilge ach go háirithe na mic léinn idirnaisiúnta mar táim ag iarraidh ár gcultúr tír a roinnt 2. CÉADAOIN NA LEASA Táim ag iarraidh rudaí le Gaeilge a eagrú do Chéadaoin na Leasa an bhliain amach romhainn.

3. TURAS THAR LEAR (as Gaeilge) Táim ag iarraidh turas a shocrú thar lear as Gaeilge do na mic léinn i 2019/20 mar gheall nach mbeidh muid ag dul ar thuras mór mar ghrúpa chuig an tOireachtas toisc go mbeidh sé ar siúl i mBÁC. 4. SEACHTAIN NA GAEILGE Táim ag iarraidh Seachtain na Gaeilge a thabhairt isteach chuig chuile gné den Ollscoil in ionad pobal na Gaeilge amháin 5. POLASAITHE NUA Athnuachan ar polasaithe an AML agus iad a dhéanamh níos fearr do chuile mac léinn in OCBÁC. Má tá polasaithe laidre ann, bheinn in ann níos mó a dhéanamh le húdarás na mic léinn!

My plans are fairly simple and these are the things I want to do if I get in as Oifigeach na Gaeilge again: 1. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS I want to do more to ensure more use Irish but especially to international students so we can share our national culture!

2. WELLNESS WEDNESDAY I want to arrange more gaeilge events for wellness wednesdays as Irish has good opportunity for integration into this weekly themed day.

3. TRIP ABROAD AS GAEILGE As we will not be travelling far afield with Oireachtas being in Dublin, I hope to plan a small trip abroad as Gaeilge in its place.

4. SEACHTAIN NA GAEILGE I want to extend Seachtain na Gaeilge outside of the Irish community alone to promote diversity of the language correctly.

5. FRESH POLICIES Update policies and improve policies of the SU for every student in DCU. If strong policy is in place, I could do more with mandate of students.

Patrick Rogers Running For: Postgraduate Officer

If elected as Postgraduate Officer for the 2019-2020 academic year, I hope to encourage postgraduate students to become more fully engaged with the Student’s Union. We need more postgraduates to become involved as class representatives on the Class Representative Council, and become more involved in societies.

I believe that both undergraduate and postgraduate students will benefit from this engagement.

I believe that I am well placed to increase representation across the university, since I have been involved in events in All Hallows, St Patrick’s and Glasnevin campuses during my time at DCU. I believe that we should create greater coordination for postgraduates across these campuses and allow for students from different faculties to meet and organise events to this end. I have attended conferences and events at all three campuses, as well as the PubHD meetups, and I believe that the Postgraduate officer can help in allowing for greater involvement of postgraduates across the university.

I would like to see greater engagement of postgraduates across the university, both with one another and with undergraduates, would be an excellent opportunity to create a new spirit of co-operation in the University. I believe that this would add immense value to our student experience, and allow students more opportunity to interact in a positive way. I would like to take an opportunity to take this forward as Postgraduate Officer, and look forward to the possibility of doing so should I be elected.