The autumn semester is about to start and with that we are also looking for student representatives for several national assignments. Student representatives are found both at universities and at national level. Every year SFS nominates student representatives for various national bodies. We have previously had student representatives guest on the blog to talk about their assignments and today it is Rebecca Linderholm's turn.
Hi Rebecca! Can you tell us briefly about yourself and your background in the student movement?
My name is Rebecca Linderholm and I am currently studying my final year of the subject teacher training program at Karlstad University. I have been involved in the student movement in various ways, including working full-time at the Karlstad Student Union in the 2018/2019 academic year as vice president with responsibility for educational policy.
What is your mission as a student representative?
I am a student representative in SUHF's expert group for teacher education. The assignment involves me participating in the group's meetings and contributing a student perspective on issues that affect teacher education and school policy nationally. I would like to contribute with the perspective of how changes in education may affect student teachers in their everyday studies but also in their future professional lives.
Can you tell us about something you learned during your assignment?
Above all, I have gained greater insight into national university/college and school policy. I have also learned to discuss these issues in a different arena than I am used to, i.e. outside my own university and my own education. In addition, I have gained a clearer picture of the unique role that SFS has in issues affecting higher education.
What is the best thing about being a student representative?
That it is often educational in more ways than expected. Earlier this year, SFS organized a live webinar remotely together with parliamentarians and representatives from trade unions where I participated in the panel. For me, it was a new but educational way to highlight, disseminate and discuss changes in teacher education.
Why are student representatives needed?
Student representatives contribute a unique perspective, cliché but true. It is students who ultimately carry out and participate in most of what is done at universities. Therefore, a student perspective is beneficial for all parties; students, the university and society.
What would you like to say to those who are thinking about applying to become a student representative?
It's not as difficult as it might seem at first glance. Your best experiences and perspectives are based precisely on the fact that you are a student and that is your best asset.
Are you interested in becoming a student representative? There are currently several vacancies available, you can find them here hereRead previous blogs with student representatives here.