LeadLUU is our annual student leadership race, where University of Leeds students can run to become a Student Officer and lead the Union for a year.
LeadLUU is one of the biggest student elections in the country, and a highlight of campus life.
This is not just a regular student election…
It could change your life.
Why did you decide to run in a student election?
I decided to run in my elections a long time ago at Sheffield Hallam.
To be honest, I wanted a job that would allow me to stay in Sheffield at the time. Through conversations with the Students’ Union at Sheffield Hallam, and my interactions while on the Cricket Club committee, I learned more about what the student union does.
I felt I could make a difference in how clubs and societies were supported at Sheffield Hallam. It was both for employment reasons and a desire to make a difference in supporting clubs and societies.
How did campaigning to become a Student Leader shape your future career?
Campaigning to become a student leader helped build my confidence in talking to people I didn’t know. It developed my communication and pitching skills, as I had to convince people to vote for me as the right candidate.
This process of stepping outside my comfort zone benefited my career journey by helping me understand myself better and realise that I can do things even if they are uncomfortable or new.
It taught me to be brave, which has been invaluable in my career.
Did running open up any career opportunities or paths that you hadn’t previously considered?
Running in the elections as an officer opened up career opportunities I hadn’t considered, particularly within student unions and the third sector or non-profit organisations.
As an officer, I became a trustee, responsible for stewarding the charitable organisation and understanding the partnerships and behind-the-scenes work involved.
Initially, I wanted to go into events management, but being an officer made me realise the impact of student unions and the skills required to work in them. It opened my eyes to the opportunities in this area, and I’ve worked in student unions ever since.
What did the process teach you about confidence, leadership, and handling challenges?
The process of campaigning taught me the importance of leadership and clear communication.
I had to lead a campaign team, work with volunteers, and ensure they had what they needed to succeed. This experience taught me to bring the right energy to a team and be clear about expectations.
It also developed my confidence in communicating ideas and perspectives, which has been beneficial in my career.
Looking back, how might your career have been different if you hadn’t run in the elections?
If I hadn’t run to be a student officer, I might have worked in the events industry, sports management, or as a leisure centre manager or sports coach.
In my current role within the student union, I get to engage in various activities, which is exciting. I feel fortunate to have taken this career path.
What would you say to students who don’t feel confident about running, but want to run?
To any students who feel unsure about running, my advice is to see it as an opportunity for personal and professional development. It may be uncomfortable, but the rewards at the end of the process are significant.
You will grow, develop new skills, and learn about your capabilities.
Whether or not you succeed in being elected, the key takeaway is the personal growth and increased confidence you will gain.
LeadLUU is your chance to shape your Leeds experience, gain leadership skills, and make real change on campus.
Step up. Stand out. Lead your Union!
LeadLUU: You’ve Nominated- What Happens Now?
How Running In LeadLUU Can Shape Your Career: Fabiha Chowdhury
