Ordinary People, Ordinary Things

Are you the next President of ULSU? This year marks the 40^th year of the institution that has grown to be UL, one that anyone who holds this position must be extremely proud of, but also critical of. I’ll be sad to leave here this summer, but I think that’s a common thread across the board. Anyone who leaves here misses it.

Across all of the people that I have encountered in three years as a sabbatical officer, there are few who are memorable for the wrong reason. I’ve gotten myself in some hot water and I’ve been the poster boy, but one thing remains as a common thread through all of that, representing your Union in a way that best represents you. Elected officers are here for the students; if you come here on a career path, or “to be the President” expect to leave unfulfilled, even if you do leave popular. It is only by being truly firm in your beliefs and doing what you believe is right that you can lead.

The third draft of governance proposals have now been approved by Exec and will be making their way to C&S and Council for consideration. Members for the Constitutional Working Group will be sought at Council and EGM next week.

I am often asked what’s in it for me. Well apart from the perks that come with being a governor, the most satisfying thing is knowing that I’ve made a difference. To me, it is important to make a difference, even if it is never spoken about, in fact some of the most satisfying things that any sabbatical officer will do cannot be spoken about, because they are extremely personal to the people we help. Bereavements, financial problems and health issues come through our doors year in, year out. We’re not the answer to anyone’s problems, but we are here to signpost and to assist along the way.
Be bold, be daring, but most of all, have a plan. Know what you want to achieve. Know why you want to lead this organisation. If a box can’t be ticked that it’s complete, then it’s not something you want to achieve, it’s woolly and is probably a “how” more than a “what”.
Being President of a students’ union is a very lonely place at times. Be prepared for constant abuse, but be mindful that those abusing are the minority. It is easy to be a hurler on the ditch, but you won’t have a chance score unless you put on your jersey and get on the field. Criticism is constant, both internal and external, you will need a mental strength to cope with it and the calm to realise that there are no solutions in it. There are of course situations where your passion for your belief takes over and all of that goes out the window, but keep your goal in sight.

Extraordinary things are not what make the world go round. It is ordinary people, doing ordinary things that make the biggest difference in our lives.

Are you an ordinary person? Are you willing to lead?

Any questions drop me a line SUPresident@ul.ie