The Power of Your Student Voice and Getting Involved in Student Advocacy

Written by Claudia Chow, {4B – Recreation and Leisure Studies} 

Throughout my first and second year as an undergraduate student at the University of Waterloo, I was completely unaware of the advocacy work carried out by WUSA, which I knew as Feds before they rebranded. Little did I know my student voice could help solve issues that me and many other students were facing throughout campus. Getting involved in student advocacy can ensure that the student body is represented well, especially if you are having a bad experience on campus. Speak out about the issues you’re facing because it is likely that many other students are having the same experience. Whether you decide to be a student ambassador or just voice your opinion at the WUSA General Meeting, your voice matters as it can help current and future UW students. 

As a fourth-year student now in my final term, I regret not getting more involved in student advocacy. But there are still plenty of opportunities to get involved and the General Meeting is a great and straightforward way to join the conversation, vote on student-presented proposals and learn about student advocacy work being done on and off campus. At this year’s General Meeting, you will get the chance to see our elected Board of (student) Directors in action, learn how the student democratic process works and allow your voice to be heard on matters that impact your student experience. 

Bonus: There is also free food provided at the event for the first 100 people who stay for the first hour of the meeting. You must be in attendance to vote, unless you know someone attending who can represent you that evening. 

Come by the SLC on Tuesday, March 21st at 5:00pm to get some food, sit back and listen to the discussion and vote on motions students care about. Lively debates are expected!