goldsmithssu
YOUR OFFICERS 4-5
GET INVOLVED 6 - 11
ACADEMIC LIFE 12 - 15
CHANGE THINGS 16 - 17
LIBERATION 18 - 19
OUR SPACES 20 - 21
GET SUPPORT 22
goldsmithssu
goldsmithssu.org
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WELCOME TO YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION Goldsmiths Students’ Union exists to make your student life better - we provide activities, events, services, support, representation and advice throughout your time here. If you’re a new student then you’re automatically - and for FREE - a member of the SU. As a member, you can democratically make decisions about the way we’re run whilst taking advantage of every service and activity that we offer. Throughout this guide we’ll share the experiences of our current and past students with the Students’ Union, and give you a glimpse into all the opportunities, funding, societies and events that are ready for you to make the most of. Check your email inbox each week for our newsletter, follow us on social media and browse our website to stay up-to-date with everything SU related.
YOUR OFFICERS The SU is led by four Full-Time Officers: elected students that steer the direction of the SU, shaping and influencing our activities, campaigns and the services we provide for students.
BETH LOWE
LAUREN CORELLI
Heya! I’m Beth, your new Campaigns and Activities Officer.
Hey everyone, Lauren here!
Activities and Campaigns Officer she/her
I studied Education, Culture and Society at Goldsmiths. During my time as a student I was captain and President of the Womxn’s football team, which really motivated me to want to get involved in the SU. My main focus this year is on inclusion, community and communication. I want to ensure that students feel supported and listened to during their time at university as well as encouraging people to engage and support our local community, both on-and-off campus. I’m excited to meet as many of you as possible. Drop me an email with any questions or ideas you have!
beth@goldsmithssu.org
Education Officer she/her
I came off the Education, Culture and Society course here which was transformative for me and got me obsessed with the politics of education. My focuses are on equity, transparency, the empowerment of students and amplifying of their voices. I’m most looking forward to being part of student-based movements that can leverage tangible, lasting change at Goldsmiths. I’m buzzing for the year ahead and optimistic about what we can achieve. Random fact: I wrote to Sporty Spice when I was six saying I was sorry but that when I was older I was going to be taking over her job. Ha!
lauren@goldsmithssu.org
PART-TIME OFFICERS The Full-Time Officers, also known as SABBS, work alongside numerous Part-Time Officers. These are student volunteers elected by other students to support specific groups and to represent their needs. Read more about their individual roles on the SU website.
JOE LEAM
MONA MOUNIR
Hello, I’m Joe, SU President.
Hi, I’m Mona, your Welfare and Liberation Officer.
President he/him
Last year I was Campaigns and Activities Officer. Now I’ve stepped up as President, I want to transform our SU to be truly progressive. This year, I’ve already worked with our new warden to ensure a Green New Deal at Goldsmiths, meaning single use plastics will be banned on campus, plus the college have promised to be completely carbon neutral by 2030. For the rest of the year, I will fight for: • Cheaper accommodation for students • All staff in-house • Graduation fees abolished • Free university fees on a national level
Welfare and Liberation Officer she/her
Having been a Full-Time Officer for the past year, I have seen, firsthand, the far-from-perfect internal structures the university and SU have, so I plan to continue with a lot of that work. Among many other things, I plan to continue to fight against racism in both the university and in the SU and will work closely with academic departments, Part-Time Officers, societies and sports clubs. I’m also passionate about mental health, securing better support for students of faith, and our Against Sexual Violence work.
Hope to see you around campus!
If you have any ideas, or would like to get in touch, please do!
joe@goldsmithssu.org
mona@goldsmithssu.org 5
GET INVOLVED Getting involved in sports is a fantastic way to meet people, travel and stay ďŹ t while at university. We support, develop and administer a program of 30 sports club activities. Competitive clubs currently compete in British Universities & College Sport (BUCS) and London University’s Sports League (LUSL) as well as local and national competitions. We also have a scholarship program for students who compete at National or international level.
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Sports clubs are all student-led which means you take an active role in the development of your club and its members. We also put on a number of sporting events throughout the year, including the two below: VARSITY Varsity is an annual sports competition where our most competitive clubs face off in a series of matches against UAL (University of Arts London) for the prestigious Arts Cup. At the end of the day one university is crowned the overall winner and keeps the trophy and bragging rights for the year. It’s a fantastic opportunity to show off the skills of your team and even if you don’t get involved in the games, why not spectate and celebrate at the after party later on at the SU. THIS GIRL CAN In October we celebrate the national This Girl Can campaign by putting on a week of sporting events to encourage more Goldsmiths women to get involved in sport and activities. We believe there’s no right way to get active, if it gets your heart rate up it counts! TAP (TALENTED ATHLETE PROGRAMME) We offer a grant of up to £1,000 (tailor made to suit the successful applicant – which will include competition entries, travel costs, equipment hire) for those students who demonstrate the potential to compete at a National or International level. You can find out more details on our website: goldsmithssu.org/activities.
goldsmithssu.org/activities
‘BEING PART OF A SOCIETY 100% MADE MY UNIVERSITY EXPERIENCE’ Kevin Lewis is the former President of Hacksmiths, the student-run tech society at Goldsmiths. He’s recently graduated and set up his own business using all the skills he developed in the role… ‘If I could offer one piece of advice to new students, it would be to get involved with a club or society – you never know what it might lead to. After leaving school at 16, I got a job as a programmer. The company I worked for, which supported student hackathons, sent me as a sponsor to an event organised by Hacksmiths, the student-run tech society at Goldsmiths. Before long, I’d signed up to a Creative Computing degree there.
learnt about sponsorship, building communities, communications and how to run a team. Hacksmiths also thrives on its relationships with external contributors who sponsor events, in fact several students have gone on to work at companies they’ve met along the way.
In my first year I became VicePresident of Hacksmiths and in my second, President. The aim of the society is to provide everyone, regardless of their background or degree, the opportunity to explore technology. We ran multiple student activities, from beginner workshops to more expert hackathons. We also held weekly drop-in sessions. Being a part of the society gave me a real sense of community. It was great to hang out with like-minded people. I developed lots of new skills too – I
In my final year (I’ve just graduated!) we had a new President and in that period I set up my company,
Underland, with a friend. We ploughed away at it throughout third year. It was hard work finishing a degree and juggling the demands of our new clients, but we did it. We now run developer events alongside software development – essentially what I’d been doing with Hacksmiths! We’ve since employed three people and are going from strength to strength.
Being a part of the society 100% made my university experience. Why wouldn’t you engage with all these activities that are on offer? Your degree isn’t just a piece of paper, it’s also the relationships you build and the skills you learn through the opportunities that are on offer.’
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Joining a club or society is one of the best ways to get the most out of student life. With over 80 societies, communities and sports clubs on offer, there’s something for everyone.
goldsmithssu.org/activities
5 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN A SOCIETY Here’s why Aymen Babar, a third-year marketing student, thinks joining a club, society or community is so beneficial…
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It gives you a focus
‘Societies are basically groups of likeminded students who get together to share their interests. When I joined Goldsmiths, I loved how colourful and vibrant it felt, but there didn’t seem to be a society that reflected me, so I started my own – the Pakistani Society. I wanted the focus to be about promoting the rich culture Pakistan holds.’ 2.
You develop a sense of community
‘I was so chuffed when my society was approved that I started planning and getting other people involved straight away. My ultimate aim was to bring people together from all walks of life through cultural and social events. It’s been hard work at times, but ultimately I’ve been able to create a community of my own.’ 3.
You can get involved in and run your own events
‘Over the course of the year we held 16 events. One of our biggest was a Qawwali night (Qawwali is a form of traditional devotional music) and we served food and refreshments alongside. We also ran events for Pakistani Awareness Week, including
a collaboration with the Uni Boob society which supports the charity Coppafeel, and we got involved with the International Food Fair. Our events have been so successful that we won three SU Awards!’ 4.
You learn new skills
‘I’ve learnt about time management, project management and event planning. It’s also been eye-opening to see how different people work. Most importantly, I’ve developed my self-confidence – I find it easier to do presentations now, which helps me academically. It’s been a big commitment but these skills will help me run a business in the future, which is what I plan to do.’ 5.
You meet loads of new people
‘Being part of a society means you’re never alone as there’s always something else to organise, in fact there are around 80 people in our Pakistani Society group chat! It’s been fun but a lot of work, which is why I’ve stepped down as President for my final year. I’m going to continue as an advisor though, which just shows how much I love it.’ goldsmithssu.org/activities
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ACADEMIC LIFE For your experience inside the classroom we have a number of student volunteers ready to represent you to the department and ensure students are involved in important decisions. DEPARTMENT REPS These are current Goldsmiths students who are appointed to collect and act on your feedback, helping to improve your academic experience. Accessibility and Inclusion Reps focus on improving the experience of disabled students and Postgraduate researchers are represented by specific Reps for these students. PTO to read about Sophie’s experience as a Department Rep. ‘If you love helping others, being a mouthpiece for your peers, enacting change and creating strong relationships between those in your department, then I implore you to become a rep. You will not regret it!’ Danielle, Undergraduate Rep for the History department.
PROGRAMME REPS Becoming a Programme Rep is a great way of influencing the development of your degree programme as you’re elected by other students on your programme of study to bring forward the views of those on your course.
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ACADEMIC COMMUNITIES FUND This fund provides money and staff time to help you to develop a community within your department. Last year we funded approximately £12,000 worth of events, and want to put on even more this year – to help you socialise, experience London and expand on what’s already offered in your curriculum.
goldsmithssu.org/academic
‘BECOMING A DEPARTMENT REP WAS SO EMPOWERING’
As a postgrad sociology student, Sophie Porter, 25, has spent a year representing her department and says it’s only enhanced her university experience… ‘When I was first approached about becoming a Department Rep, I was quite apprehensive - I wasn’t sure I could do it! Looking back, I’m so glad I took the plunge because it made my second year so completely different to the first. The main purpose of the role is to collect and pass on feedback from other students in your department in order to improve their educational experience. You learn about project management
through research projects you work on - mine was about retention: why students drop out and what we can do about it - as well as event organisation. But the main thing I’ve learnt from being a rep is understanding that my voice is valid. Knowing you’re an equal with all the staff members at various meetings has been a real confidence boost… it’s so empowering.
Being able to voice my ideas meant I organised the first research symposium, where speakers within the department presented their research to postgraduates. We then came up with solutions which are now being implemented. That was all borne out of me feeling confident enough to put forward the suggestion. Being a rep has also helped me realise what’s accessible to me as a student, for example The Academic Communities Fund - a pot of money that students can use to arrange events with their course mates. Through this, I set up a successful film screening series.
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‘MY VOICE HAS MADE A REAL IMPACT’
As a rep, you get paid a bursary too, so you feel valued in what you’re doing. Also, as a postgrad you can sometimes feel a little disconnected from university but becoming a rep meant I was physically on campus a lot more, so I felt really engaged. Looking forward, I’m now considering the idea of working in policy and research, using the skills I’ve learnt from being a rep. I’d definitely encourage other students to get involved! I had a completely different experience this year and know my work has made a real impact.’
For more info, visit goldsmithssu.org/academic
CHANGE THINGS
CAMPAIGNS We endeavour to defend, protect and campaign for the rights of students, which is why we campaign throughout the year on issues of local and global importance. We welcome everyone to get involved, whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, international, part-time or mature! Find out more at goldsmithssu.org/campaigns
ELECTIONS
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The Union is led by students, elected at two points in the year, who shape campaigning work and decision making. Goldsmiths students are represented by our SABBs (the four Full-Time Officers) who work in the paid role for one year, 21 Part-Time Officers, who undertake the voluntary role alongside their studies, plus four Student Trustees who sit on the Trustee Board. Every Goldsmiths student has the right to vote in the elections and stand to be an Officer or Trustee.
STUDENT ASSEMBLY Held regularly throughout the year, Student Assembly is the forum in which students can suggest and influence key policies that shape the Union’s work. This is also when Full and Part-Time Officers give updates on their current projects, allowing students to monitor and hold to account the Officers they elected. Students can bring motions (an agenda of action for the Union to act upon) to be debated and voted on by every student at the meeting.
These sessions are your opportunity to get involved, get trained and play a role in changing campus cultures and battling sexual violence right here in our own community. The curriculum will teach you a robust and evidence-based set of skills to identify and intervene in instances of misconduct. Better still, the training is already in your timetables so you can simply attend the session you’re registered for.
goldsmithssu.org/democracy
ACTIVE BYSTANDER TRAINING
LIBERATION At Goldsmiths SU, we try and make sure liberation is at the heart of everything we do. Liberation is ‘the act of working to challenge and reverse the effects of structural oppression in society’. LIBERATION NETWORKS We support six liberation networks, bringing together BME (black and minority ethnic), disabled students, international students, LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer+), trans and non-binary people, and women. We help to bring together students from these liberation backgrounds to meet new people, build networks, and work on issues, campaigns and plans. You elect six Part-Time Liberation Officers relating to these networks each year in October, who help support and represent the experiences and interests of each liberation group both within the Union and to the college. We also have six liberation committees which anyone from these liberation groups can get involved in. The liberation committees work with the Part-Time Officers, societies, communities and sports club to put on liberation events throughout the year. To get involved, contact liberation@goldsmithssu.org. LIBERATION EVENTS We hold regular meet-ups each day in the Liberation Room, where students from liberation groups can socialise, meet like-minded people, organise campaigns and build solidarity. The Liberation Room is downstairs in the Students’ Union building, and is a space that anyone who is a part of these groups use. We also run regular events throughout the year with these groups, including Liberation History Months programmes. This includes Black History Month, Disability History Month, LGBTQ+ History Month and Women’s History Month. Clubs, societies and communities also get involved in liberation campaigns and events such as This Girl Can week and the Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign. These liberation networks are not the only active liberation and campaigning groups on campus. If you are interested in learning more about activist groups such as Goldsmiths Anti-Racist Action (GARA) and Justice for Workers, contact our Campaigns & Activities Officer at beth@goldsmithssu.org.
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OUR SPACES Make sure you pop into the Students’ Union and make the most of our spaces to study and catch up with friends - check out our location on the map at the back of this guide. Remember, every penny of profit is invested back into SU services and activities - so you’re technically making a charitable donation every time you eat or drink in one of our venues!
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THE SU CAFE Open 8.30am - 9pm, Monday - Friday We offer a wide range of sandwiches, drinks and snacks! Vegan? Glutenfree? Halal? Dairy-free? We have it all covered! Open from 8.30am for your breakfast and coffee needs until 9pm as our new Lounge serving dessert, hot food, wines and a selection of craft beers and ciders.
We employ a number of student staff, who we pay ÂŁ11.89 an hour. Take a look at the opportunities throughout the year on our website. goldsmithssu.org
THE SU BAR Open 2pm - late, Monday - Friday We offer a wide range of drinks for every occasion. There are a variety of regular events from live music to quizzes and club nights. THE VENUE This is a big space where we host a variety of student events. It’s also available to hire for student activities. THE SU SHOP Open 9am - 5pm, Monday - Friday
NURSERY We manage a 25-place nursery for children aged three months to five years.
goldsmithssu.org/yourservices
Located in the Richard Hoggart Building, the SU Shop offers you the best value for lunch and art supplies in the area.
GET SUPPORT We know that sometimes student life can be hard, and you might need a little extra support, so we provide a confidential, non-judgemental and free advice service for all Goldsmiths students. Our specialist advisers can support you with academic issues, and we provide a series of guides (including help with employment, housing, banking, health and wellbeing) on our website to help support you through student life. Our advice team offers in-person, telephone or Skype appointments where we can advise you on your options, explain your rights, and support you through your case. Find out more about the service and get in touch with the team at goldsmithssu.org/advice.
Contributing photographers Raya Mohan Roser Jorba Soler sheisontheway.com
With special thanks to Kevin Lewis Aymen Babar Sophie Porter
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LIBRARY
THE SU
RICHARD HOGGART BUILDING
Find the SU Bar and SU Cafe on the top floor and middle floor of the SU Building. The SU Shop is inside the Richard Hoggart Building (RHB). Turn right as you walk into the building.
goldsmithssu
goldsmithssu.org