Make Your Voice Heard! Student Elections for A.Y. 2024/25

Have you ever wondered who truly represents the voice of the students at our university? The student elections are just around the corner, bringing with them an opportunity to express your opinions and influence decisions that truly matter to our academic community. Once again this November, students of H-FARM College in partnership with the University of Chichester will have the chance to elect their spokespersons—one for each academic year—serving for a one-year term.

What is the Role of Student Representatives?

Student representatives are the voice of the student community, actively engaging in university life and working to improve the student experience. Their main responsibilities include attending monthly meetings with H-FARM College staff to discuss important topics and propose initiatives for campus life. Additionally, they serve as a link between students and faculty, gathering students’ needs and ensuring their voices are heard in decisions and discussions with academic staff. In this way, student representatives act as a vital bridge between the student community and the institution, collaborating to continually enhance the university experience.

How Do Student Elections Contribute to Students’ Personal Growth and Development?

Becoming a student representative offers a unique opportunity for students to develop skills in leadership, communication, and responsibility management, fostering a sense of civic duty within the school community. Additionally, it provides hands-on, real-life learning experiences, aligning with H-FARM College’s educational approach that values direct, practical engagement.

We asked the candidates about their motivations, and their answers reveal a deep commitment to promoting an inclusive, change-oriented community within our university. Here’s what Matteo and Lucrezia, two of the candidates, had to say:

Why did you decide to run in the student elections? What motivated you to take this step?

We decided to run because we want to give voice to all members of our program. Having thoroughly understood the dynamics—both positive and challenging—of our environment, we want to help our peers make the most of an innovative, dynamic, and ‘out-of-the-box’ place like H-FARM College. Sometimes, students discuss issues that could be resolved or strengths that could be focused on but aren’t brought to the table when there’s a chance. Our goal is to make the College the ideal ‘place-to-be’ for all of us and for those who will come after.

What values do you believe are most important for a student representative, and how do you plan to embody them in your role?

The key value in this role is the centrality of the individual: valuing everyone’s voice and collaborating with all classmates to make professors and staff aware of student dynamics is essential to our approach.

How do you think these elections benefit the student body, and how can they foster personal growth?

The elections will be beneficial for the student body by providing reference points that serve as a bridge between students and professors. This will especially benefit those who often don’t voice their opinions for personal reasons. Personal growth will come naturally from taking action and creating change; small changes might lead to incredible results.

The student elections represent a unique opportunity for growth and engagement for the entire student community. Through this experience, students develop essential skills in leadership, communication, and responsibility management, gaining a sense of civic and social responsibility that prepares them to face future challenges. Elections also encourage active participation, inviting students to be protagonists of school life and positively influence the academic environment.

Thanks to this educational approach, aligned with the values of H-FARM College, each representative not only defends and amplifies their peers’ voices but also grows as a person and as an active community member.

Article by students Alessia Piovaticci and Francesca Bosa