Students' Unions are charities, run independently from the university whose students they work for. 

Their role is to represent the best interests of students of the university both within the university itself, and on national issues.

Students' Unions are run by elected student officers, both part-time and full-time. These officers lead the work of the Union, using student input to direct their efforts.
Students' Unions also have full-time staff teams, who help make sure the Union is running effectively by carrying out a lot of the behind the scenes admin.

That's a big question! There's lots we do both visibly and behind the scenes to help support our members, such as:

• Advice and Support
  In SOAS SU we've got years of experience with supporting students through academic issues such as Mitigating Circumstances and Appeals, or personal issues such as Housing or Funding. Check through our Support resources, or don't hesitate to contact our Advice Caseworker.
   
• Advocacy and Representation
  Union Officers sit on Boards and Committees across SOAS, and they use their presence in these spaces to raise issues and fight for changes that benefit you.
  If you have something you'd like to raise, don't hesitate to get in touch with any of our Officers.
  
  We also work to make sure all students feel represented in and around SOAS. From campaigns to Liberation Month events, we want to make sure everyone is seen, heard, and feels valued during their time in university. We're here to amplify your voice.
   
• Events
  What would you time at university be without some memorable events?! We're here to host all kinds of events from late licences to panel discussions, Varsity to Freshers!
  We want you to enjoy your time at SOAS! Let our Activities & Events Co-President know if there's any events you'd like to see.
   
• Opportunities
  University is much more than just what you learn in the classroom, and we're here to help link you up with opportunities, both professional and just for fun!
  Keep an eye on our SU Newsletter for details of part-time work, volunteering, and other opportunities.
   
• Sports and Societies
  We have lots of student-run sports teams and societies for you to join at SOAS SU, and we work to make sure they are well supported, funded, and working to benefit you.
  Check out all of our sports teams and societies to see what you can get involved in.
   
• SU Bar
  Last but certainly not least, we have an SU Bar located on the lower ground floor of the Main Building of SOAS. We pride ourselves in having a space that's just for SOAS students to meet eachother and unwind...and enjoy some of the cheapest pints in central London!

SOAS Students' Union is here for you, and you can reach out to us at any time.

Our working hours are 10am - 6pm, Monday to Friday.

You may want to reach out to one of our Union Officers or our SU Staff, as appropriate. If you're unsure, please contact su@soas.ac.uk

We're located in the Main Building of SOAS, immediately to the right of the main foyer.

Here you will find our 3 offices, the Junior Common Room (JCR) where we hold events, the SU Shop, and the SU Bar. We also have a Senior Common Room (SCR) located on the second floor, directly above the JCR.