Here from our Student Representation Coordinator Dáire Martin about his experience as Student President at ATU Sligo
"Embarking on the path of a Students’ Union officer is an invitation to a journey of unparalleled growth, leadership, and advocacy. My tenure as President of ATU Sligo Students’ Union, commencing in 2021 and culminating in a successful re-election in 2022, stands as a testament to the profound impact such a role can have on both personal development and collective action."
Dáire Martin is the Representation Coordinator at UL Student Life, he is your go-do for all queries relating to the upcoming Student Officer Elections. Dáire reflects back on his time as a Student Officer and offers his advice to anyone considering running. In a nutshell, go for it!
Leadership Amplified: Empowering Change through Visionary Leadership
The essence of a Students’ Union officer’s role transcends administrative duties, embodying the heart of visionary leadership.
This position granted me the unique privilege to craft and implement a vision for a more inclusive, safe, and engaging campus environment. Through initiatives aimed at combating gender-based violence and enhancing student safety, I learned the true meaning of leadership: the courage to stand for what is right and the creativity to inspire change. Having the resilience to overcome challenges is helpful too, because there tends to be a lot of them! I was fortunate enough to be in a position to spearhead a total organisational overhaul, reimagining how we do representation and advocacy. Bringing in new officer positions, new staff roles and an entirely new and bespoke constitution were all testament to thinking bigger picture and visionary leadership. Those additons, which I hope live a long life, will enable those who come through the doors after me to continue inflicting positive change and effective representation.
Advocacy in Action: Championing Causes with Passion and Purpose
One of the most rewarding aspects of serving as a Students’ Union officer was the opportunity to advocate passionately for
causes that matter, and causes that were so important to me. By focusing on critical issues such as sexual assault and harassment, student safety and other prevalent student facing issues, I was able to channel my energy into creating meaningful change. These campaigns, some of which were nominated for national awards, underscored the power of student leadership in addressing societal challenges, reaffirming my commitment to advocacy and social justice, something truly refreshing that comes with the student officer role.
Academic and Professional Trajectory: From Student Leadership to Professional Leadership
The journey through student leadership was a cornerstone for my academic and professional aspirations. It directly influenced my decision to pursue a Masters Degree in Professional Leadership, with a research focus tailored around enhancing student success in higher education. This period was instrumental in shaping my career path, providing a clear direction and a robust foundation for future endeavours in leadership and educational advocacy, something that tends to be common amongst the student officer alumni.
Networking and Collaboration: Fostering Lasting Connections
The relationships cultivated during my tenure have become one of the most cherished outcomes of my experience. The collaboration with university staff, internal colleagues, fellow Students’ Union officers, and the broader student community has fostered a network of allies, mentors, and friends. These connections, sustained beyond my tenure, continue to offer invaluable insights and shared discussions, with plenty of coffee catch-ups too!
Legacy and Impact: Leaving a Mark on the Community and Beyond
Reflecting on my time as President, the legacy left behind is not solely measured by the initiatives undertaken or the campaigns launched but by the lasting impact on the university community and the personal growth experienced. This role was a profound exercise in understanding the influence one individual can have, inspiring a continued commitment to service and leadership in all aspects of life. It was a period that taught me the value of advocacy, the importance of community, and the power of leadership. As I look forward to the future, I carry with me the lessons learned, the friendships made, and the unwavering belief in the power of committed individuals to enact positive change.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The journey of a Students’ Union officer is more than a role; it’s an adventure in discovering one’s potential to lead, advocate, and make a tangible difference. My experience at ATU Sligo Students’ Union was a pivotal chapter in my life, filled with challenges, achievements, and invaluable lessons. For those contemplating this path, know that it offers an extraordinary opportunity to shape your future, impact your community, and embark on a lifelong journey of leadership and growth. If you are thinking of running in election to become a student officer, my advice, is to go for it!