At unibz, student representatives play a vital role in shaping campus life, improving communication, and ensuring that the voices of their peers are heard at all levels. Through their stories, we discover the challenges, motivations, and personal growth that come with representing others. 

This series - In Their Words - shares the authentic experiences of those who have chosen to take on this important responsibility — in their own words.

I decided to run for election because, during my first two years at university, I encountered several issues that affected both me and many of my fellow students. These experiences made me realise the importance of having someone who can listen, take action, and effectively represent the needs of the student body. I’ve always had a genuine interest in supporting others and improving the environment I’m part of. Running for student representative felt like the right step to take, and I have found it to be a way to turn frustration into constructive action.

Before taking on the role, I expected to be deeply involved in problem-solving processes and to serve as a reliable point of contact for students who needed guidance or had concerns. I also hoped to bridge the gap between students and faculty, creating better communication and understanding. I was also aware that the role would be challenging, mostly because I embarked on this journey during my third academic year, when the agenda is very tight, but also incredibly rewarding. Looking back now, I can confidently say that these expectations were not only met but also exceeded. This role provided me with the opportunity to develop essential soft skills, including communication, leadership, and empathy, which I will carry with me long after university.

There were a couple of surprising moments that really stood out. The first was realising how many of the issues we were facing had been known for a long time, yet no effective action had ever been taken. That was both frustrating and motivating because it showed me how much was left to be done. Another surprise was how naturally students started turning to me for help or to talk to me about their concerns. I didn’t expect such a strong sense of responsibility to develop so quickly. Their trust pushed me to be more present, more active, and ultimately more aware of the impact I could have.

Without hesitation, I would rate this experience as extremely positive and enriching. It gave me the opportunity to grow on both a personal and professional level. I’ve gained confidence, improved my organisational and public speaking skills, and learned how to listen actively and respond effectively. It also taught me the values of patience, persistence, and teamwork. It’s an experience I would recommend to anyone who wants to step outside their comfort zone and take on a meaningful role within the student community.

My main advice for future candidates: be consistent and committed. This role requires dedication, especially in moments when things get complicated or when progress seems slow. But those are the moments where you’ll learn the most and grow as a person. Always keep communication open, listen actively, and don’t be afraid to speak up — your voice matters more than you think. Also, don’t forget to enjoy the journey: being a student representative is a unique opportunity to leave a positive mark and connect with people in a way that goes far beyond academics.