South Eastern Regional College’s Aaron Lewis, Ciaran Maguire, Heather Ritchie and Jack Linsey are ready to face the challenges of student life when they take up their role as the new Presidents of the Students' Union (SU), at each of the Colleges Campuses.
Aaron, who is SU President at the Colleges Lisburn Campus is looking forward to taking up the challenge and said:
"When I first joined the SU I didn't set out to become President. I feel that I can bring new ideas to improve the SERC experience for all our students. I'm delighted that I was elected to the role and I’m looking forward to it.
“As President for the Students Union it is my role to ensure students are represented and supported in the best possible way, maintaining a high standard of student welfare. My role is also about helping students engage better with the college both inside and outside the classroom creating a culture which is fun while striving to enhance their learning experience.”
Aaron, who is studying a Diploma in Professional Cookery at the Colleges Lisburn Campus won the elections earlier this year and is currently carrying out his new post.
Speaking after the election Ciaran, SU President at the Colleges Downpatrick Campus highlighted concerns over student finance and threats to reduce university places as issues that are likely to be important.
Ciarans focus will be on student placements and industry projects, ensuring that students gain as much hands on experience as possible which will help them gain the employability skills and experience required when they graduate. Ciaran sees these as crucial considering the very competitive job market. He also hopes to promote and encourage student engagement to ensure everyone gets the most out of their time at SERC.
Congratulating the students on their new role, SU Governor Sami Ali said: "This year has been great for the students union with lots of positive changes. The students union provides students with an invaluable resource to make the transition from school or family life into a college environment. To help create an ideal environment for students we also organise events to provide an opportunity for students from all backgrounds to come together.”
"I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the students and wish them well in their new role. I'm sure they will continue to carry on the good work and take the SU forward."