Hello everyone,
You may have seen some publicity around the internet already, or in poster form in Fisher House, but I hope you won't mind being reminded again that the DSU is holding its elections over the next few days.
Why does this matter?
The DSU is the student union that represents every student at Durham University to the University's management. It's like the GCR on a larger scale, and not just for Ustinov. When it's run effectively it can really make things better for students by representing your views to the people at the very top of the University's management structure - it can really influence decisions.
Who's being elected?
There are four positions: President, Education and Welfare Officer (EWO), Student Societies and Development Officer (SSDO), and DUCK manager. The President is in overall charge of the DSU and sits on a number of University committees; the EWO coordinates all the course and faculty representatives to better represent the academic side of student life, as well as coordinating University-wide welfare campaigns, and sitting on countless University committees. The SSDO is like our Clubs and Societies Officer, but with a remit that also includes running democracy within the DSU. Finally, the DUCK manager runs DUCK, Durham University Charities Kommittee, which raises hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity every year.
What's in it for postgrads?
The more people from Ustinov turn out to vote, the more your voice will be listened to. Candidates for all positions this year are more aware of postgrads than ever, and a large turnout from Ustinov will ensure that they realise that your opinions are as important as what undergrads think.
Watch out on twitter (@ustinovgcr) and on facebook for more information on how to vote - it's online and only takes a minute.
