Volunteering as a Student School Officer – Kamo’s experience

For Student Volunteering Week 2025, we are shining a light on RGU’s Student School Officers. School Officers are responsible for listening to student feedback, working in partnership with staff to make enhancements, and representing their peers.

Research student Kamo shares his experience as the first Student School Officer for the Graduate School at RGU.

Applying to become the first Student School Officer at the Graduate School

When I stepped into the role of Student School Officer for postgraduate researchers in October 2024, I knew I was embarking on something special. As the first person to hold this position, I saw an opportunity to make a real difference in our research community at RGU.

The path to this role began with the observation that postgraduate research can often be a solitary journey and also that there is a need for researchers to find ways of applying their research through this solitary journey. While RGU typically bustles with activities, research students can sometimes feel disconnected from the wider student body and union activities. This realisation sparked my desire to create meaningful connections between our research community and the broader university experience so that even research students who are engaged in teaching can get to feel like students.

Taking on this pioneering role began with a straightforward application process. After the nomination phase, I found myself scheduled for an interview with Student Union President Seth Odei, and the Dean of the Graduate School, Professor Sarah Pedersen, alongside two other candidates. The excitement was palpable – each of us, from the feelers I got, eager to contribute to our research community’s development. Once appointed, I quickly discovered that this role would become an integral part of my research journey, though one that would require careful balance.

My experience of the role and how it has benefitted me

That balance has proved both challenging and rewarding. There are days when my calendar seems to genuinely burst at the seams, particularly since the role comes with seats at numerous university tables and committees.

Yet, what keeps me going is the genuine satisfaction of serving my fellow researchers. It’s not just about ticking boxes or attending meetings – it’s about making a tangible difference in how our postgraduate research community connects and thrives.

The most fulfilling aspect of my role has been the personal interactions. As a point of contact for colleagues facing various challenges, I regularly visit researchers in their hubs and engage in conversations that range from casual chats to deeper discussions about their research experiences. Whether I’m listening to success stories or helping someone through a difficult period, these authentic connections remind me why I took on this role in the first place.

I’ve noticed significant growth in my own abilities too. The position has enhanced my interpersonal skills and social confidence in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Each interaction, whether with fellow researchers, staff members, or university leadership, has contributed to my professional development. I’ve learned to navigate different perspectives, mediate discussions, and advocate effectively for our research community’s needs.

My advice to students wanting to step into a similar role

As I look ahead to October 2025, when new candidates will hopefully step forward to continue this work, I feel optimistic about the foundation we’re building. To anyone considering taking on a similar role, I’d say this: don’t underestimate the impact you can have. Yes, it requires careful time management and dedication, but the opportunity to shape the university experience for your peers is incredibly rewarding.

For future Student School Officers, my advice would be to remain approachable and genuine in your interactions. Listen more than you speak, and remember that sometimes the most important part of your role is simply being there for your colleagues. The position isn’t just about formal meetings and reports – it’s about building a community where every researcher feels supported and connected.

As the first person in this role, I am having the privilege of laying the groundwork for future officers. While pioneering a new position comes with its challenges, it also offers the unique opportunity to shape its direction and impact. This journey embodies three essential elements of leadership: Voice. Vision. Voyage.

Kamo Sende

My volunteering journey – From RGU to Kenya

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