Mission Statement:
Empowering Student Success and Community. At AAU Student Union, our mission is to empower and support every student in achieving academic success, personal growth, and lifelong wellness. We are dedicated to creating a vibrant, inclusive community where all students feel valued, connected, and motivated to engage in university life and beyond. We strive to provide a dynamic range of programs, services, and leadership opportunities that foster student engagement, cultural enrichment, and advocacy on campus. By facilitating meaningful connections and championing student interests, we aim to enhance the overall university experience and prepare our members for a diverse and changing world. Through continuous improvement and responsive leadership, we commit to uphold the values of integrity, collaboration, and excellence in all our endeavors, ensuring that the student voice is always heard and respected.
Together, we create a better university experience for everyone.
History:
Roots and Rise of AAU Student Union
Founding (2001)
The AAU Student Union was established in 2001, born from a collective student initiative aimed at representing student interests and improving campus life. The foundation was laid by a passionate group of student leaders who sought to create a unified voice for the student body at a time when student representation was minimal.
Expansion and Recognition (2002)
Throughout the 1980s, the student union significantly expanded its influence on campus, initiating the first student-run services and advocating for student rights. This decade also saw the construction of the Student Union Building, which became a hub for student activities and a tangible symbol of the student community's growing significance.
Programming and Engagement (2003)
In the 2003, the student union launched several key programs, including the Mentorship Program and the Annual Career Fair, which connected students with alumni and potential employers. The union also spearheaded sustainability initiatives, making [University Name] a leader in environmental stewardship among higher education institutions.
Digital Transformation (2004)
The early 2004 marked a digital transformation as the student union embraced technology to better connect with members. The launch of our first website, online voting for elections, and digital student services revolutionized how students interacted with the union and participated in governance.
Advocacy and Impact (2005 to Present)
In recent years, our student union has been at the forefront of significant university decisions, advocating for policies such as tuition freezes, enhanced mental health services, and diversity initiatives. The establishment of the Student Emergency Fund during this period showcased our commitment to supporting students in immediate financial crises.
Today and Tomorrow
Today, the AAU Student Union continues to be a driving force for change and a cornerstone of student life. As we look to the future, we are committed to enhancing our offerings, advocating for student needs, and ensuring that our campus is a welcoming, inclusive place for all.
Events and Activities
Annual Events
- Welcome Week: Kick off the new academic year with a week full of activities including campus tours, meet and greets, and fun competitions to help new students integrate and returning students reconnect.
- Homecoming: Join the festivities with a parade, sports events, and alumni gatherings. A celebration of school spirit and community.
- Earth Day Celebrations: Participate in workshops, panel discussions, and a campus clean-up drive as part of our commitment to sustainability.
- Cultural Fest: A showcase of diversity with performances, food stalls, and art exhibitions from around the world.
Monthly Workshops and Seminars
- Leadership Development Workshops: Enhance your leadership skills through interactive workshops designed to prepare you for student leadership roles and beyond.
- Career Readiness Seminars: Attend sessions on resume building, interview skills, and networking with potential employers and alumni.
- Mental Health Workshops: Join discussions and activities focused on promoting mental well-being and stress management techniques.
Recurring Activities
- Movie Nights: Enjoy a monthly movie night on campus featuring classics, blockbusters, and indie films, with free popcorn and drinks.
- Book Club: Meet monthly to discuss a new book chosen by the club members, ranging from fiction to non-fiction and everything in between.
- Intramural Sports Leagues: Get involved in regular sports events like basketball, soccer, and volleyball. Open to all skill levels.
Special Initiatives
- Sustainability Drive: Participate in initiatives aimed at reducing campus waste and promoting recycling and sustainability practices.
- Volunteer Days: Join hands with local organizations for community service days to help those in need and enhance our community.
- Innovation Challenge: A semester-long event where students can form teams to solve real-world problems with innovative solutions and win prizes.
Social Media Challenges
- Photo Contests: Share your best campus life photos with specific themes each month on Instagram for a chance to win exciting prizes.
- Fitness Challenges: Participate in month-long fitness challenges to promote health and wellness among the student body.
Seasonal Events
- Winter Gala: A formal event to celebrate the end of the year with music, dancing, and year-end recognitions.
- Spring Fest: Welcome the spring with outdoor music, food trucks, and games.
Services
Academic Support
Tutoring Services: Free peer tutoring available for a wide range of subjects to help students grasp course material and prepare for exams.
Study Groups: Facilitated study group sessions for major courses, encouraging collaborative learning and peer support.
Writing Center: Assistance with writing assignments across all disciplines, offering help from planning to final revisions.
Workshops and Seminars: Regularly scheduled workshops on academic skills, including time management, research methods, and exam preparation.
Legal Support
Legal Advice: Confidential and free legal advice from qualified lawyers on issues such as tenant rights, employment law, and immigration matters.
Advocacy Services: Representation and support in navigating university policies, disputes, and disciplinary actions.
Workshops on Legal Rights: Educational sessions on students' rights and responsibilities under the law.
Personal Support
Counseling Services: Free, confidential counseling services with professional therapists, available to help students manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other personal issues.
Health and Wellness Programs: Initiatives aimed at promoting physical health and mental wellbeing, including fitness classes, nutrition advice, and mindfulness sessions.
Financial Aid Advising: Guidance on budget management, financial planning, and navigating financial aid and scholarships.
Career Counseling: Support in career planning, including help with resumes, cover letters, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Additional Resources
Disability Support Services: Accessibility services and resources for students with disabilities, ensuring equal access to all university facilities and activities.
International Student Support: Dedicated support for international students, including help with visa issues, cultural adjustment, and language barrier challenges.
Emergency Assistance: Programs to assist students in crisis, such as emergency financial aid, food pantry services, and temporary accommodations.
Clubs and Societies:
Joining and Starting Clubs at AAU Student Union
How to Join a Club
- Club Fair: Attend the annual Club Fair at the start of the academic year, where you can meet club members and sign up.
- Online Directory: Browse our comprehensive online directory of clubs and societies to find one that matches your interests.
- Contact Information: Each club's profile includes contact details for the current club leaders. Reach out directly to learn more or attend a meeting.
How to Start a Club
- Initial Requirements: Gather a minimum number of interested members (usually 5-10), a faculty advisor, and a clear purpose or mission for your club.
- Registration Form: Complete the official Club Registration Form available on our website, detailing your club’s objectives and proposed activities.
- Approval Process: Submit your form to the Student Union for review. Approval typically involves assessing the uniqueness of the club, its potential impact, and sustainability.
- Starter Kit: Once approved, you'll receive a starter kit including funding guidelines, resource contacts, and promotional tools to help you launch successfully.
Directory of Existing Clubs
- Categories: Clubs are categorized by interest for easy navigation, such as Academic, Cultural, Recreational, Advocacy, and Service.
- Search and Filter: Use the search bar and filters to find clubs by name, category, or activity type.
- Club Profiles: Each club has a detailed profile including their mission, upcoming events, contact details, and photos from past activities.
- Health and Wellness: Resources and programs related to health and wellness.
