Rodiat Olatunde

How did you first get involved with the Newcastle College Students' Union?

I first joined the Students’ Union (SU) during my Freshers’ Week at Newcastle College back in 2024. My teachers took time during the week to introduce all the new students to the wider community in the College and what it entails, which included details about the SU. My friend and I were quite interested in it after that, so we went to the SU Office and applied for roles on the Executive Team!

What role do you play in the Students’ Union, and what are your duties?

I’m the Outreach Officer for the SU, which means I’m responsible for working across different College sites to tell students about events, activities and opportunities that are coming up for them within (or organised by) the SU.

How have your interactions with staff and students at Newcastle College changed through your work with the Students’ Union?

I’d say that my interactions with staff and students have changed in many ways. Before I joined the SU Executive Team last year, I was quite a shy person and didn’t like to step out of my comfort zone. As soon as I joined the SU though, I got a confidence boost from campaigning and talking to other students about their life at the College and what they needed to really thrive here. The more I talked to people, and the more events I worked on and delivered, the more I really came to believe in myself – now, there’s nothing I can’t do!

What kinds of projects have you worked on as part of the Students’ Union?

Since I’m the Outreach Officer, my job relies on communication between other SU Officers and the wider student community. By working with other members of the Executive Team, I’ve helped to organise and run events for Cultural Day, a mental health workshop, activities for International Women’s Day and lots of other opportunities on campus.

What advice would you give to any current or future students considering getting involved with the Students’ Union?

Go for it! Becoming an SU Officer is one of the best decisions I’ve made since I joined Newcastle College, so never listen to anyone who might discourage you – believe in yourself and go for what you want, because so long as you make your voice heard, people will always vote for you. Being an Officer will improve your communication skills, you’ll get experience that looks great on a CV and you’ll make friends while doing it! Additionally, the SU is open to everyone, no matter who you are and where you come from. I’m so proud to be a part of the Newcastle College Students’ Union!