UDSU Clubs and Activities
The Student Activities Department is responsible for providing you with activities to get involved in whilst you are studying at the University of Derby. There is a wide range of activities to take part in accompanied with endless list of benefits, you can join a wide variety of sports teams and societies, you can get involved in volunteering opportunities, community development events, Student Union representation, campaigning and a number of personal development courses.
How do UDSU Student Activities work?
It all depends on which area interest you the most, all Clubs and Societies are run by students for students, and have to meet certain criteria before they can set up (see 'How to Set Up a Club or Society'). The Committee that runs the Club or Society is elected at an Annual General Meeting by the members of the group. Any member is entitled to stand for election for a Committee position. Each Committee must have a minimum of a President, Secretary and Treasurer, although your group may have extra positions.
If you are interested in volunteering and development then the Students Union runs a number of projects within the community, whilst there are also a number of opportunities with the Student Union. You may want to help organise some of the Balls we have including, Graduation, Awards and May. There also positions within designated areas such as Students Activities or Campaigning. Providing students with additional resources and learning is a key priority for the Students Union and we often run courses in First Aid, Health and Safety and Leadership management. If you want to find out more about volunteering and positions with the Student Union email ollie.shearer@udsu.co.uk.
What is my commitment once I’ve joined?
It is entirely up to you! Some groups need more commitment than others; likewise some are more expensive to be involved in than others. Every club is governed by their own constitution which requires all members to attend so do try to keep involved and remember your input on how a particular club or society is ran is valuable to the committee so keep them informed if you are not happy with anything. If you feel that a certain club or society is for then you MUST keep the pink form when you sign up as this will allow you to get a refund of your membership fee.
What will I get out of it?
The list is endless, and it quite often depends what aspect of Student Activities you are interested in and also which area you choose to get involved in. It is an opportunity to meet new people who have the same interests as you, or possibly have a go at something you've never tried before, learn new skills, make a difference to society and gain vital experience which may lead to that 'Dream job'. No matter what level of your involvement, being a member of Student Activities always looks good on your C.V. It's even better if you have been on a committee, lead a project helped make a difference.
What happens to the membership fees I pay to join a Club or Society?
Affiliated Clubs and Activities have two bank accounts with the Students Union. The social account where your membership money is paid into is solely for money raised by the Club or Society. The grant accounts are where subsidy from the Student Union, in the form of a grant is paid into.
All Clubs and Societies have to raise their own funds and pay a percentage of the running costs themselves. Each member of a group is entitled to know what money is being spent by the Committee, so you are quite within your rights to ask the Treasurer about the accounts.
If I choose to volunteer with the Student Union or run Community Projects will I have to pay for this?
No. The Students Union is dedicated to enriching and empowering your journey through Student Life and we don't expect for you to have to pay for this. We have a variety of financial support systems which allows you to get involved an learn new skills s it wont cost you a penny. To find out more about additional funding from the Student Union please read the 'Development fund'.
Who do I contact if I am unhappy with an aspect of Student Activities?
If you are a member of a club or society the first people to speak to are the members of the Committee. They are elected to represent you and should listen to your ideas or criticisms. If you feel you cannot speak to the Committee members or want to discuss an issue within Development or Volunteering then contact the Student Activities elected officers or staff, who will be pleased to help you.
Safety
Everyone has some kind of responsibility for someone else, whether whilst playing sport, driving a minibus or enjoying your chosen activity. The University of Derby Students Union is committed to improving safety in Union activities, so if you have any worries, concerns or just want a bit more information, please contact the Student Activities Department in the offices at Kedleston Road.
Important information regarding insurance is contained in the Safety in Student Activities leaflet available from the Student Union. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are adequately covered for your personal circumstances.
The Awards Ball
The Awards Ball is held every year, and includes the awards presentation ceremony for all students who are members of Student Activities. This is the event of the year for everyone who has been involved in any aspect of Student Activities. Information on the Awards Ball will be available nearer the event.
