FAQ
What does a Student Rep do?
Reps highlight areas of excellence and help create positive change across all of Unitec and even externally. If elected, you would be expected to attend a few meetings, undergo an introductory training session, refer students to the appropriate services at Unitec when requested (and if unsure to the Student Rep Coordinator), keep in touch with your class and the Student Rep Coordinator, and be respectful of the diverse range of students that make up Unitec. You wouldn't need to worry about serious cases of harassment or conflict, students’ personal problems or employment concerns of staff members.
Reps are encouraged to balance their life so that duties should never interfere with your studies.
What if I'm not sure I can do it?
You can! We've got the training and support to support you develop leadership skills.
What’s the difference between my class Student Rep. and the Student Council?
While all Student Reps contribute to creating positive change and decision-making at Unitec, the difference is that your class Student Rep is elected by you and your classmates only, and focuses on your class, which the Student Council is elected in Unitec-wide elections and deals with the highest level of decision-making and decision-makers across Unitec.
What is USU and what does USU do?
USU Students’ Association at Unitec is contracted by Unitec to facilitate the Student Rep system. This enables Unitec to stay at arms-length from the Student Rep structure, allowing the Student Council to operate independently, and the Student Rep Coordinator to give independent advice. USU employs the Student Rep. Coordinator to support and guide Reps in dealing with a range of feedback. USU provides initial training and more where necessary, help with communication, information from other feedback sources, and the organisation of meetings etc.
Do I have to do training?
Yes, there are a few ways we provide training to ensure that none of the Student Reps miss out. If you find that none of the training opportunities are working for you, speak to the Student Rep. Coordinator on representation@unitec.ac.nz or (09) 815 421 ext. 7380
The Student Rep. in my class doesn't do anything!
Student Reps. are first and foremost students and sometimes studies can be overwhelming. However, if you believe that there is a Student Rep. not living up to expectations, there is a procedure for helping address concerns.
Contact the Student Rep. Coordinator on representation@unitec.ac.nz or (09) 815 421 ext. 7380 as this could be opportunity for us to provide additional support in the form of training or to look at holding a re-election.
What's in it for me?
As a Student Rep. you will receive training that will help you develop leadership skills. Employers are looking at extra-curricular activities and demonstration of key transferrable skills. Set yourself apart from the rest of the pack. There is an opportunity for incentives throughout the year and you can help ensure that the student voice results in positive change.
My Rep. is awesome! How can I thank them?
Student Reps. are eligible for a number of incentives and your feedback could help get them one! Contact the Student Rep. Coordinator at representation@unitec.ac.nz, (09) 815 4321 ext. 7380, or by making an appointment. Even letting your Rep know personally the difference they've made for you is awesome, and is always appreciated!
If your question isn't answered here, feel free to get in contact with the Student Rep. Coordinator on representation@unitec.ac.nz, (09) 815 4321 ext. 7380 or by making an appointment.