Members of the student federation answer the Fulcrum’s questions on the upcoming year
Describe your job in a sentence.
My role as president is to be the spokesperson for the student federation, as well as playing a number of different roles like chairing executive or committee meetings, or ensuring the smooth operation of our businesses, student services, campaigns, and events.
What is the best thing about U of O?
It has to be the students, the membership the SFUO represents, and the University of Ottawa community who make up the campus life, whether this is with our bilingual nature or the thousands of students involved in various clubs or activities.
Any advice for the new students?
As students, we have the power to make our campus what we want it to be. Find something that interests you and use your passion to make change.
Paige Galette — VP Communications
Describe your job in a sentence.
I am responsible for most of the communication that [goes] from [the] SFUO to the students [and] the community, as well as the face of the SFUO when it comes to the media.
What is the best thing about U of O?
We are a very political campus, which is very great. As well, we are a very diverse campus… very multicultural, very accommodating.
Any advice for the new students?
Definitely get involved with your student union. Also, explore different opportunities especially when it comes to 101 Week. Have fun—it’s definitely a new [time] in life. [Don’t] be afraid to explore all the different things you wouldn’t in high school.
Sarah Jayne King — VP Finance
Describe your job in a sentence.
The vp finance is responsible for the four student-run businesses, the health plan, and oversight of the budget of the SFUO, which is presented to the Board of Administration.
What is the best thing about U of O?
The best thing about U of O is the fact that we have such a significant student union providing useful services and defending student rights.
Any advice for the new students?
The one thing you’ll hear the most: Get involved—there’s something for everyone. Come talk to us at the SFUO!
Amy Hammett — VP Student Affairs
Describe your job in a sentence.
I work primarily with the student services and clubs, as well as tackling issues on campus that are important to students.
What is the best thing about U of O?
The student clubs—they really are the heart of the campus. With over 250 of them, there truly is something for every interest.
Any advice for the new students?
I know you will probably be told this by lots of people, but that’s because it’s true: Get involved! There is so much to experience on this campus and so many interesting things to try out that it’s not worth wasting time on the side lines.
Liz Kessler — VP University Affairs
Describe your job in a sentence.
My job is to work for the interests of undergraduate students, specifically by advocating their academic and human rights.
What is the best thing about U of O?
Well, obviously the bilingualism here is unique, but I would also say the fact that we are located in the capital. The great location means that we are surrounded [by the] headquarters of so many NGOs, embassies, and, of course, the federal government, which means we have so many extra opportunities for students to get involved that don’t exist in other cities.
Any advice for the new students?
It’s such a cliché, but I’m going to say it anyway: Get involved. There are so many different ways to get involved, whether it is by volunteering or joining a club—and there really is something for everyone. It’s the best way to make friends, and you will learn lots and add to your resumé at the same time. Learning at university doesn’t just happen in the classroom; it also happens in what you choose to do in your spare time. I know it’s what everybody says, but it’s absolutely true.
Marie-Claude Noël — VP Social
Describe your job in a sentence.
My job is kind of like juggling a dozen eggs while balancing on a rapidly moving 18-wheeler. More concretely, I’m responsible for organizing social programming and promoting campus life for undergraduate students at the University of Ottawa with the help of clubs, services, and federated bodies.
What is the best thing about U of O?
The best thing about the University of Ottawa is that we have such a vibrant campus. There are so many different ways to get involved and such a variety of things going on every day. This is the very reason that I was so interested in the position of vp social. I love the opportunity to collaborate with different student groups in the planning of events and programming in general. Our campus is a community in [and] of itself, and different ideas and initiatives come from different places within that community. This encourages varied, interesting, and entertaining social programming.
Any advice for the new students?
If I were to offer one bit of advice to incoming students, it would be to get involved outside the classroom. Whether that be through a club, volunteering for a service, or becoming active within their federated body, getting involved encourages a different type of learning that is complimentary to a theoretical education and which also makes the university experience much more dynamic. It’s also a great way to make connections and to garner valuable experience.
