What motivated you to get involved with the Academic Council? 

I thought it could be interesting to get insight into the processes that students normally don’t know about, and that way be allowed to see the university from a different perspective. I also thought that it was a really good opportunity to develop as a person and to have different experiences than what you get from a regular study-relevant job.

What matters and topics specifically do you work on?

We have recently talked a lot about the Master's programme reform and about the reorganization of our faculty. These are both important areas that are very significant for students, and so it has been important for the council to include our perspectives in the process.

What does someone who’s considering running for one of AAU's governing bodies need to know?

It is extremely educational, and you become well equipped for this work along the way. The most important thing is that you are curious about the area and that you are open to engaging in an agenda that can sometimes be challenging to navigate.

What are the advantages of allowing students to be on the Academic Council?  

It gives students a real opportunity to be able to contribute to the important decisions that are made on a more structural level, and to be able to create more transparency and relevance in our degree programmes.

How much time do you typically devote to the Academic Council?  

It varies a bit, but I probably spend about 10 hours a month – a little more if there are preparations for larger meetings or special issues we have to consider. It is important to point out that I’m also deputy chair of my academic council, and thus have the opportunity to be involved in a few more areas.

What skills have you gained by being on the Academic Council? 

I think I’ve gained a better understanding of strategy because I’ve gotten a lot of insight into the organization, development and management of the university.

What would you say to students who are unsure about getting involved in student politics?

Jump in and get in touch with the students who sit on the board or council that you think sounds interesting. Ask a lot of questions so that you can learn more about what suits you. You learn along the way, and you quickly discover that our views are actually relevant and matter. It’s a really good opportunity to strengthen your personal and professional skills, and it doesn’t require that you know everything in advance, just that you are curious and want to get involved.