My experience as President of the ACS in sixth form

Participating in extra-curricular activities, such as sports clubs or cultural or hobby-led societies whilst in can be a great way of not only boosting your uni application and CV, it can be a great way of developing your skills and helping others in your college and community.

One student who has successfully done this is Student Advisory Board member, Sakhina. Here's her story...

How did you become President of your College Afro-Caribbean Society?

The society was created in 2018 when I was in Year 12. I joined in September upon enrolling at my college and was instantly and consistently proactive. The Presidents at the time recognised my effort and interest in society. I did state I was interested in being the President and upon leaving the college, they had a discussion and selected their new President.

Why did you join and run for president?

I joined the society as I realised how much potential it had to unite and empower the black community in my college and did not hesitate to be part of something so profound. I did not actually run for president but I was always open to holding that position as I believed I could do great things for the ACS.

What do your duties involve as president? Does it take up a lot of your time?

It takes up quite a bit of time. My duties involve sending emails for upcoming events, emailing staff members of the college with ads to advertise the society to be placed within the bulletin, networking with Year 12s to get new members, mentoring my Year 12 mentee, contacting visitors (& organising their attendance to the College for ACS events), being a host for events that take place etc.

What skills have you learnt from it?

I have definitely gained/increased my: communication, leadership, networking and organisation skills.

How else do you think it has benefitted your future (career/education)? What do you want to go on to do?

I do think it is a useful example to talk about in interviews. Also it has familiarised me with ACS which can prepare me for university society life and generally has prepared me to lead teams efficiently in workplace/other academic environments. 

What are your top tips for anyone thinking about joining a society?

Be open minded, be eager and be yourself!