How to become a candidate in the UPSU Student Elections

Written by: UPSU

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If you're interested in running in the Student Elections this year but aren't quite sure what's involved or where to start, then you're in luck - we've created a handy step-by-step guide to becoming a candidate.

1. Choose a role

What position do you want to run for? Look at the positions available to stand in a consider if you would suit the role.

The following roles are up for election.

Sabbatical Officers (2023/24)
The Sabbatical Officers are full-time, paid roles and are open to all current University of Plymouth students. The start date for these positions is 1st July 2023.

President
VP Activities
VP Education
VP Wellbeing & Diversity

School Reps (2023/24)
These are part-time, voluntary positions and can be completed alongside your studies with an average commitment of 10 hours per month.

School of Art, Design and Architecture Representative
School of Society and Culture Representative
Plymouth Institute of Education Representative
Plymouth Business School Representative
School of Biomedical and Healthcare Sciences Representative
Peninsula Dental School Representative
Peninsula Medical School Representative
School of Health Professions Representative
School of Nursing and Midwifery Representative
School of Psychology Representative
School of Biological and Marine Sciences Representative
School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics Representative
School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences Representative

2. Read the Election rules

Before you decide whether or not you want to nominate yourself as a candidate in the Student Elections 2023, make sure that you read the Election rules and familiarise yourself with the Election process and what being a candidate involves.

If you are unsure of anything or would like to learn more then get in touch with our Student Voice team on studentvoice@su.plymouth.ac.uk

Read the rules here.

3. Complete the online nomination form

Simply log in with your University log in details on upsu.com, head to upsu.com/elections and complete your online nomination.

The deadline for submitting your nomination is Monday 6th February 2023 at midday.

4. Complete your candidate profile

This year we have changed the nomination process for students running for roles in the Student Elections. Candidates will no longer be asked to write a full manifesto outlining what they propose to achieve if elected. Instead, this written piece will be in a Q&A format whereby candidates will be required to provide answers to seven key questions (or three questions for part-time School Rep roles) that will enable voters to decide who will fit each role the best.?

For a full overview of the changes click here.

The deadline for completing your candidate profile is Monday 13th February 2023 at midday.

5. Complete the online candidate training

All candidates must complete an online e-learning course which outlines the Election rules, key contacts, your responsibilities as a candidate around campaigning an tips for running your campaign.

Shortly after nominations close on Monday 6th February you will be sent a link to the e-learning course. This is compulsory and if you have not completed the training you will not be added to the ballot.

The deadline for completing the candidate training is Monday 20th February at midday.

6. Come along to a candidate workshop

As well as the compulsory e-learning training, we’ll also be hosting a series of workshops which will be an opportunity for you to get to know your fellow candidates, chat to staff and to ask any questions you may have.

These sessions are not compulsory but are in place for you to come along and access support and get feedback on your campaign in a supportive environment.