But somewhere between fieldwork, student events and late-night meetings, she found her stride and a calling to help shape student life for college and university students across the campus and has been announced as the new Students’ Union President for the next academic year.
Eli joined University Centre Reaseheath in 2023 and has been an active member of Reaseheath Students’ Union (SU) ever since, taking on a range of roles and helping to run events across campus.
In fact, she made such a positive impression that she was recognised at the college’s annual Presentation of Awards ceremony this summer for her contribution to student life which inspired her to take the next step and run for President.
“Working with the SU since I arrived really made me believe I could make a difference,” said Eli. “I love the student engagement side of things, and I’ve enjoyed watching how the campus grows and improves every year. That’s what drives me to do more.”
Finding out she’d been announced as the President, was a whirlwind moment.
“I woke up to loads of notifications on my phone – messages from friends, family and staff congratulating me before I even knew. It was like being thrown in the deep end before I could even doggy paddle, but I’ve taken to it like a fish to water and I’m really enjoying it.”
Eli is the first SU President in several years to hold the role while still studying full-time, something she sees as a real strength.
“Because I’m still a student, the changes that happen affect me too, just like everyone else. I think that helps me stay connected and makes it easier for students to relate to me. My motto this year is ‘Our College, Our Voices, Your President’, which ties in with the wider ‘Your Voice, Your Union’ campaign.”
For Eli, the SU has been central to her own Reaseheath journey.
“The SU was my family away from home. When I first came here from a small college in Manchester, I didn’t know anyone and really struggled to settle in. A lot of my friends went off to other universities together, and I came to Reaseheath on my own. The people I met through the SU helped me come out of my shell and made me feel like I belonged, I probably wouldn’t have stayed without them.”
Eli’s main goal this year is to make Reaseheath feel even more connected by improving how the SU communicates with students.
“I want to set up an open feedback forum, something like an agony aunt column, where students can raise things and see regular updates on what’s being done. Even the small steps matter. I want people to feel like they’re in the loop.”
A big part of Eli’s role is getting behind the RAG (Raising and Giving) charity activities. This year’s the Freshers Crew voted almost unanimously to support the David Lewis Centre, a local charity that provides education and care for people with complex needs.
“The Freshers Crew was really moved by what the David Lewis Centre does. Their dedication to helping both young people and adults stood out to everyone, and it just felt like the right choice.”
The SU has already kicked off the year with popular fundraising events including bake sales and a Halloween Scarefest around the college grounds.
“It was brilliant seeing everyone getting into the spirit – scare actors, the cellar, the lake walk, the lot. Our next big one is 12 Days of Reaseheath in December, which will be all about raising money and spreading a bit of festive cheer before the Christmas break.”
Eli’s also proud of the new SU team taking shape this year.
“The team is amazing, we’ve got students from loads of different courses and from college and university, residential and non-residential. Everyone’s got fresh ideas and real energy. I can already feel that this year’s going to bring big progress.”
When it comes to the Reaseheath experience, Eli says the atmosphere around campus is what makes it so special.
“I love the socials and activities. I might look intimidating when I’m walking around, but deep down I’m a sucker for seeing people have fun. When I see others enjoying themselves and talking about it with passion, that’s when I know we’ve done something right.”
Eli’s advice to new students is simple but heartfelt: “Just be yourself. I came here thinking I’d stand out because of how I look or the things I like, but Reaseheath really is a place for everyone. I was quiet when I arrived, and now you’d be lucky if I stop talking! There’s so much to do and so many people to meet – you’ll find your people here.”
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