My experience as a Student Trustee

Prathu

By Prathu, computer science with artificial intelligence student

Becoming a Student Trustee at the University of Nottingham Students’ Union has been one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences of my time at uni. It’s not every day you get to sit at the same table as senior leadership, lay trustees, and experienced professionals at the very top of their fields, and have your voice heard and make a difference.

Contributing to decision-making

I sat on both the Trustee Board and the Finance, Risk, and Compliance (FRC) Committee, understanding how a large organisation is actually run, reviewing finances and risk reports to our long-term strategy, I got to see and contribute first-hand to how decisions are made at high level.

Presenting and interviewing

One of my key highlights was helping present our Students’ Union Strategic Plans (STPs) to the University Board. Standing in front of the uni leadership, sharing our vision, and seeing it valued was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. I also had the opportunity to sit on the interview panel for our external auditors; asking questions, understanding their approaches, and just seeing how important transparency and accountability are. Honestly, something I never imagined I’d be trusted to do as a student.

Gaining confidence

What surprised me most was how much I grew personally. I got all the training and support for the board, which really helped me gain confidence, ask questions, and contribute meaningfully - even in high-pressure situations (trust me, some boards are literally a boiling pot).

Sitting alongside experienced lay trustees and senior leadership taught me that being a trustee isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about listening, bringing your experience as a student, and making sure everyone’s voice is heard. I realised very quickly that being a student in that room doesn’t mean your input is in any way less valuable - in fact, it’s often the most important perspective in the room. You are truly appreciated for being there.

Valuing the student voice

Being a Student Trustee has taught me so much about thinking strategically, owning that responsibility, and being resilient in what you believe. It showed me that student voice really can shape decisions, and that you grow the most when you step outside your comfort zone.

If you’re thinking about taking on a role like this, I’d say do it. It’s challenging, rewarding, and gives you a chance to work with some very incredible people, gain skills you didn’t know you had, and make a real impact.

Positions for Student Trustees will be advertised soon. Want to find out more about these positions? Email Susan Dosangh, Governance Specialist, to start the conversation.