Academic Reps

Academic Reps are the voice for students when it comes to the educational side of their Cambridge experience. There are two types of Academic Rep, Faculty Reps and Schools Reps. The former represent students who broadly do the same subject as them, sitting on Faculty Boards and campaigning on issues that affect those students. Issues such as decolonising curricula, physical accessibility of faculties, inclusive teaching and assessment, and course structure are all recent campaigns. Schools Reps, on the other hand, look at larger decision making processes in the university and think strategically about longer-term change; they also have a vote at CUSU Council.

The CUSU Education Officer provides reps with training and resources, including initial training as soon as they’re elected. There will also be Academic Forum which will take place fortnightly during term time. This will be a space for reps to meet, to bring up issues that are of concern to the student they represent, to share best practice, to discuss the wider issues surrounding education in Cambridge, and to propose policy to take to CUSU Council. If you care about improving the education and opportunities that Cambridge offers for all students and are passionate about students having the power to make change in their academic life, then you should think about standing to be a rep at the elections in Michaelmas.

CUSU provides support, training and events for Reps throughout the year, where you’ll develop a huge range of valuable skills and get to meet other reps from across the University. If all that doesn’t convince you, being a Student Academic Rep also looks great on your CV, and gives you a vote at CUSU Council.

For more information, get in touch with Ali Hyde, Education Officer, at education@cusu.cam.ac.uk