My name is Dan Johnson, and I’m running for the position of RSU President. I am a final year Classical Civilisations student, but most people know me from my roles as Chair of the Students’ Union Council, Men's Rowing Captain, Historical and Classical Society VP. It may seem unusual to be in so many roles, but I thrive in positions of responsibility and want to do as much as I can to improve university life for others. During my time in these positions, I’ve had the opportunity to meet and work with so many amazing people, make great memories, and see positive changes. By using my connections and skills, I believe that I can make an impact that students will truly appreciate.

My first plan is a forum for students to post ideas, concerns and support in a friendly environment as well as introducing more social spaces around campus. By allowing students to speak freely online or in person, we can know what people need while enabling the opportunity to vote on BOP Themes, upcoming events, and socials to make them more memorable. It could also help students get feedback from lecturers and staff on minor issues. Similarly, a student magazine or E-magazine would support the community with collaborative articles, poetry and prose, art, weekly events calendars, and society takeovers.

On the topic of events, multi-society social events can allow students outside of certain disciplines to experience the lives of those around them. With lectures and workshops to broadcast the diverse skills from around our community as well as to teach useful skills for the world beyond university. With diversity on campus, it has become clear that students with dietary requirements can’t find appropriate food when on campus. With an incredibly diverse student population, a wide range of food is necessary for us. I hope to fix this while continuing to keep our carbon footprint lower to keep campus life peaceful.

Even with all the security within the university, we still hear of people wandering into buildings, setting off fire alarms through the night and causing disturbances around campus. These issues can be overlooked by the university which leaves students feeling abandoned and isolated. By improving communication between students and staff, people could be heard sooner, and problems could be avoided with ease. As well as ensuring support is available whenever students need it through a hotline or an out of hours helpline.

In terms of my experience, in my time as SUC Chair, I have seen how the university operates and remain critical in the face of complications. Through my societal roles I have planned and hosted events, led teams, secured connections, and brought positive change. Through my experience in sport and music I have learned to show confidence and encourage others’ voices to be heard. Together we can, if we vote for Dan.