Expectation versus Reality - starting out as VP Education

Monday 17-08-2020 - 09:29
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What did I think starting my first proper job would look like? When I was elected Vice President of Education, on March 12th, for me that looked like trying to give students the same three amazing years that I had as a student at Chester. I was eager to get into the office, meet my fellow elected officers and SU staff; to create those relationships over the three months, between elections and when I took the post, which would allow me to make impactful change over my year in office. That was what I thought starting my first proper job would look like. I can tell you that was not the case.

 

My first few days in the job involved me working from home, in Bournemouth, on Microsoft teams in a meeting with sixteen people who I had never and still two months later haven’t in person. It could have been a disaster, but it was far from it. We managed to form those relationships through virtual coffee chats (Not limited to just coffee), team catchups, and quizzes, as well as a thorough introduction to the Union. I now know so much about the team, their favourite chocolate bars, worst holidays, and that if you are ever taking on the chaser have Kit on your team to just name a few. Interactions with the university have been completely different as well: I have attended student disciplinary panels, university committees, stakeholder meetings, and NUS lead and change virtually.

 

It has, of course, had some challenging moments, people forgetting to unmute themselves and dodgy connections. But that is paired with so many positives such as being able to accommodate everyone’s location which would have been difficult across over sixty miles and eight campuses.

 

I think if you take anything away from this, it is that just because something is not how you envisioned it does not mean you can’t make the most out of it and embrace the challenge. I still cannot wait to get back on to campus, like I am sure a lot of you reading this will echo, until that time, I am embracing the online experience, and luckily I have a team around me who continue to offer their encouragement and support!

 

Jack Rankin

 

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