Taking action

THE word 'student' can have many connotations. In its most basic sense, it refers to one who commits themselves to study and therefore is thought of as an academic, one in the pursuit of knowledge.

To others, however, 'student' can suggest smelly, dirty, noisy layabouts who, for whatever reason, are intent on doing as little as possible with their time at university.

There is a third option, however, one that sheds a brighter light on what being a student entails - and one that is a bit more accurate. 'Student' to some conjures up a demographic of focused individuals taking opportunities over and above their studies to do both themselves, and others, a bit of good.

The University of York Students' Union has recently been alive with election fever. Candidates have been omnipotent as they vie for a place in the electorate's heart, or alternatively annoy a lot of people by plastering campus with publicity.

Tonight sees the results of these elections, determining which students will be at the helm of the union over the coming year. This is one way to get involved, but by no means the only one.

York Student Community Action allows students to do something more exciting with their time than cultivate a nice beer bottle collection.

YSCA provides opportunities for students to volunteer in the wider community. Most recently, students descended on Fulford Community Hall and, with the help of local children, painted a magnificent mural to give the place a fresher and funkier look - jolly nice if you ask me, and a lot of fun!

Other projects include Kids' Camp during the school holidays for local underprivileged children, environment projects, drama workshops in prison, baby-sitting, food collection and even the chance to set up your own project doing just about anything you want.

Some students bring about better connotations than others, and some students have a lot more fun than others. Think about it...

Updated: 16:03 Thursday, March 11, 2004