The autumn term will start soon and with that we are also looking for student representatives for most national assignments. Student representatives are partly out at the higher education institutions but also at the national level. Every year, SFS nominates student representatives to various national bodies. We have previously let student representatives visit the blog to talk about their assignments and today it is Rebecca Linderholm's turn.
Hi Rebecca! can you tell us a little about yourself and your background in the student movement?
My name is Rebecca Linderholm and right now I am studying my last year of the subject teacher education at Karlstad University. I have been involved in the student movement in various ways, including working full time at Karlstad Student Union in the academic year 2018/2019 as vice chairman with educational policy responsibility.
What is your assignment as a student representative?
I sit as a student representative in SUHF's expert group for teacher education. The assignment means that I participate in the group's meetings and contribute with a student perspective on issues that affect teacher education and school policy nationally. I would like to contribute with the perspective of how changes in the education may affect teacher students in their study day but also in their future professional life.
Can you tell us about something you learned during your assignment?
Above all, I have gained greater insight into national university / college and school policy. I have also learned to discuss these issues in a different arena than I am used to, ie outside my own university and my own education. In addition, I have gained a clearer picture of the unique role that SFS has in issues concerning higher education.
What is the best thing about being a student representative?
That it is often instructive in more ways than expected. Earlier this year, SFS organized a live webinar at a distance together with parliamentary politicians and representatives from the unions where I participated in the panel. For me, it was a new but educational way to highlight, disseminate and discuss changes in teacher education.
Why are student representatives needed?
Student representatives contribute with a unique perspective, clichéd but true. It is students who will ultimately perform and take part in most of what is performed at university. Therefore, a student perspective is rewarding for all parties; students, higher education and society.
What do you want to say to those who are considering applying to become a student representative?
It's not as difficult as it may seem at first glance. Your best experiences and perspectives are based on the fact that you are a student and that is your best asset.