Structure of CUSU
NOTE: This page is undergoing refurbishment, and so its content may not be up to date. This will be rectified soon. - April 2012
It exists to represent your interests and ensure you have a say in how you experience University, whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate. Every Cambridge student is automatically a member of Cambridge University Students' Union - and that includes you.
- Note: there is also a full Guide to CUSU
CUSU works by bringing together students from all colleges and depart
ments to campaign for positive change in Cambridge. We make sure that student concerns are at the centre of University decision making while providing entertainment, services and welfare support for the benefit of students.
As well as having University-wide representation, you also are also represented at College level by JCRs and MCRs (essentially college students' unions, representing undergraduates and graduates respectively). CUSU brings the JCRs and MCRs together, along with the faculty reps, who represent you within your departments. CUSU is affiliated to the National Union of Students (NUS), meaning that Cambridge students also have representation at the national level.
Campaigns
Campaigning and negotiating to improve students' lives is at the centre of what a students' union does. Students are most powerful when they organise and cooperate as a collective body. CUSU provides a strong voice and practical support to ensure that the issues you care about are actively pursued. We are currently running a number of exciting campaigns on issues ranging from ethical affairs to student safety. You can read about some of them in the campaigns section of the website and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.
However, what we campaign on is up to you. So if there is any aspect of your subject, your College or University life that you're not satisfied with, you can contact the President, bring your ideas to CUSU Council and join up with other students to demand positive change.
Representation
There are lots of groups and committees in the University where decisions are made that will affect how you live and work in Cambridge. Students elect CUSU representatives who attend these meetings, voice your opinions and influence decisions. If you have ideas for how student life can be improved and don't mind letting the University hear about them, why not stand for election to one of the various CUSU teams?
Services
CUSU offers a huge number of useful services to ensure you get the most out of Cambridge. CUSU helps not only individual students, but also provides support and training for your societies, faculty representatives and JCR/MCR committees. From confidential, non-judgemental welfare support for individuals to our entertainment nights at local venues; provision of assistance to societies to acting a 'hub' for JCR/MCR reps to share ideas, CUSU is constantly working to enhance your student experience.
Our offices, in the New Museums site (off Downing Street) are also the place to come to for the cheapest quality colour/mono photocopying and binding in Cambridge and to collect your NUS Extra Card.