My name is Sam Dickins, and I am the Vice President (VP) for Societies and Volunteering 2022/2024. In my capacity as the VP for Societies and Volunteering, I advocate for the interests of the Societies and Volunteering Projects both within the University and when consulting with external organisations. I provide support to our groups when they require additional assistance in organising and executing their activities. In addition to my primary responsibilities, I possess the ability to develop impactful campaigns that effectively capture the sentiments of students regarding issues that resonate with me. Throughout this year, my focus has been directed towards two critical areas: sustainability and concerns affecting international students at Bangor University. 

Throughout my time as a student, I had the pleasure of actively participating in multiple language and culture-based societies, alongside engaging in various volunteering projects, which truly became the highlights of my degree. Societies, with their ability to create a genuine sense of community among students, create an environment where individuals with shared interests can connect, form meaningful bonds, and establish a strong sense of belonging. Volunteering projects also offer a remarkable avenue to channel our passions and rally like-minded individuals around causes we deeply care about, empowering us to drive positive change and make a tangible impact on the world around us. 

The chance to represent these groups and collaborate with fellow students served as a major driving force behind my decision to run in the election just over a year ago. The prospect of enacting the necessary changes based on my own experiences as a student resonated deeply with me, making the prospect of the role incredibly fulfilling and rewarding. Other factors that motivated me to pursue this role was the possibility of having a significant impact on national issues. Specifically, I was driven to advocate for fairness within the UK's Higher Education System, particularly for international students. The excessive fees, additional expenses such as NUS surcharges and visa fees that international students face struck me as deeply unjust. By running for this position, I sought to address these inequities and campaign for a more equitable educational experience for all. 

A key aspect of my role is to make sure the Student Experience at Bangor is as amazing as it can be. Witnessing the incredible efforts of various groups in making this vision a reality has undeniably been a highlight of the past year. The opportunity to actively support these groups and witness their collective dedication to creating an amazing student experience with their vast range of activities has been very rewarding. 

One of the highlights of my role has been advocating for the student community both within the University and in the broader community. I have actively participated in various campaigns and initiatives, playing a pivotal role in organising events and activities. Notable examples include the Repair Café, which was part of our Sustainability campaign, where I engaged students in promoting environmentally friendly practices. During Black History Month, I focused on raising awareness among students, particularly on issues related to liberation. Additionally, I extended my support to the LGBTQ+ Society, assisting them in their fundraising efforts during the World Cup. 

By making minor changes, we can generate a significant impact on our Societies and Volunteering projects. Examples of these changes are, connecting student groups with the right individuals, ensuring struggling groups have access to suitable meeting spaces, and influencing the University to adjust its Catering Policy to facilitate their activities. It is truly an honour to contribute to their progress and be a part of their journey. 

Irrespective of the job's perks, it inevitably presents its own set of unique challenges. The demanding periods at work can be particularly intense, often causing one to lose sight of everything else and neglect self-care. Luckily, I am surrounded by an exceptional team, which provides invaluable support. However, there are still days when I come home after an exhausting day and simply collapse for a few hours. At times, the issues we tackle in collaboration with the university for the betterment of students can be incredibly intricate, involving numerous variables. Working towards a solution that truly benefits the students requires a substantial investment of time, energy, and patience (and it's usually the patience aspect that truly tests me, though I am gradually improving). I must admit that when we achieve a victory, it makes every single challenge worthwhile. 

Having completed a year in office, I have gained invaluable insights into the needs and aspirations of the student groups I represent, as well as the strategies necessary to collaborate effectively with the University to secure the best outcomes for our students. This role has provided me with the incredible opportunity to forge partnerships with exceptional organisations within our local community. Even after five years as a student at Bangor, I would have never had the chance to connect with these partners had it not been for my current position. As a Sabbatical Officer, I am faced with decisions that shape the trajectory of the Students' Union. This year has been brimming with opportunities to comprehend the inner workings of an organisation dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences for its members. It has been a telling journey, yet I recognise that each day still holds so much more to learn and discover. 

Against the backdrop of an upcoming General Election and the multitude of challenges confronting students today, my greatest hope for the future is to empower students in finding their voices and advocating for the changes they want to see in the world. Every student I have the privilege of working with possesses inherent leadership qualities. They demonstrate their leadership abilities through their involvement in societies, volunteering projects, and countless other endeavours beyond these realms. They possess the remarkable power to use their voices, ideas, and networks for positive change and contribute to a better world for all. I look forward to the opportunity to support students in realising their potential and making a lasting impact on the issues that matter most to them.