Being an unconventional thinker, I often come up with interesting and/or easy solutions to complicated problems. However, I soon realised that ideas unaccompanied by actions were worthless- nothing ventured, nothing gained! The need for a platform to translate ideas into action attracted me to student politics/ unions. Although this was the only benefit I sought, I was showered with much more!
"The need for a platform to translate ideas into action attracted me to student politics... this was the only benefit I sought"
I must point out that students' unions in different countries work differently; I have seen them up close in India and the U.K, and the difference is stark. While in India active engagement is largely perceived as laying a foundation to enter mainstream politics, activism in the U.K is seen as empowerment and an opportunity to develop soft skills required to enter the work force in general. Whatever the case maybe it is undisputed that being part of a union provides the much needed platform for professional development. It also opens doors to valuable opportunities, helps build a strong network and lasting connection with people from different walks of life.
Money Matters but Not in a Leadership Role
On the matter of pay, union roles are unpaid in India. In contrast, all sabbatical and some part-time roles are paid for in the U.K. Yes, money is a bonus where available but if that is the sole benefit one is after, surely, there are more entrepreneurial / lucrative ways to earn.
Character and capacity building are the blessings in disguise
However, common to all representatives the world over is the elevated platform to enhance one's character and capacity. The constant engagement, discussions and conversations with multitudes helps you abandon your ignorance and prejudice. It ignites a sense of togetherness - it is no longer "I"; it is always "We". If that is not enough it instills the confidence to develop ambitious ideas that accommodate multiple views, and pursue them fearlessly.
This battle for the common good of your fellow students does unconsciously trickle into your personal life. You start realising what's important and what's not. You no longer take things for granted or make assumptions. Before you know your moral compass is perfectly aligned by those who entrusted you to empower them. I can't think of single other student opportunity that offers such a privileged learning space!
Let me share one of my own experiences. I have served for two consecutive years as an elected representative (Postgraduate Research Students Officer) at the King's College London's Students' Union. During this period I have put in as many hours as any sabbatical officer would but my position was unpaid (Having come from the East, this fact did not bother me but unpaid work is unheard of here). The Union at that point in time had not allocated a budget to compensate for my position. When it did, it required taking a sabbatical year. As a full-time research student, based in a wet-lab, taking a year off would be a major setback. The College then offered to pay me in my part-time role but I outrightly refused it on moral grounds. I have been asked numerous times if that was a "tough decision". I had set a precedent on accountability by being the first and only officer at KCLSU to publish monthly updates on the work I undertook in the College e-Zine. To remain accountable and independent of the College to work in the best interests of those I represent was paramount. The answer, therefore, is "No, it was an easy decision. And the right one."
A couple of years ago, I would have laughed at the possibility of shouldering the responsibility of thousands of students. But their support and confidence in me has seen the translation of numerous innovative ideas into tangible ground realities. Today I have much to thank the 4000+ students for!
I'll leave you with this inspirational speech by India's most celebrated Army Chief, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw on leadership. His words remain relevant for all times to come.