Would you like to become active in the student union? The Computer Science Student Union is always happy to welcome new members!
As a representative body for Informatics and Computer Science, we can of course only accept students from this field. As part of the ÖH TNF, all our members are also "unfraktioniert", i.e. they do not belong to any university party (more on this here).
If these two aspects are a problem, there are plenty of other areas in the ÖH JKU that would be happy to have your support! You can put your talents to good use in departments (for students of our subjects, for example, the IT department could be a good fit) - just get in touch with the ÖH JKU directly.
We also expect our members to be open-minded and tolerant so that we can respond appropriately to the needs of our diverse student body. Of course, an unwavering desire to stand up for the interests of students is also essential.
Here you can find out how joining us usually works!
1. Get in touch
In order for us to start the onboarding process, we first need to know that you are interested!
Get in touch with the StV chair (or any other member really) during one of our events, via Discord or email. Don't be shy, we are always happy for new recruits and will usually make it work.
2. StV Interest Talk
We'll have a talk where the StV Head explains the inner workings of the ÖH, how we operate and what we expect from our members. We are also curious to hear which area of our work interests you the most: Student Guidance, Events, or Representation in Commissions?
This is nothing formal, no worries - we just want to make sure that you know what you are signing up for.
3. Trial by Fire
Once you've heard how we work, you can try it out for yourself: Especially at the beginning, most of our new members are primarily active as helpers at events, before they take on bigger tasks. We would therefore like to invite you to give us a hand at an event as a test.
During this time, we also collect feedback within the StV to make sure that everyone feels comfortable with our new recruits.
4. Onboarding
If you have made it through your trial event and are still convinced that we are worth your valuable time, we are happy to have you: We'll set you up with your accounts, a picture and your uniform.
5. Buddy System
To make the start in the Student Union less overwhelming and to help you find your way around, you will be assigned a buddy (an "older" member of the Student Council). Your buddy is your first point of contact, takes you to events and ensures that you feel comfortable in the StV.
6. Trainings
Once you are all set in the StV, there are plenty of opportunities to expand your knowledge: We offer free training courses on all the basics that come up in your work as a representative, be it primers to university law or coffee brewing workshops. You will also learn lots of practical things for your future job and life in general. We look forward to you taking on more and more responsibility and replacing your buddy at some point - for a new generation of student representatives!
First things first: Working in the Student Union is an honorary position and only works if you are passionate about it. However, there are a few benefits to ensure that you are not disadvantaged by your work as a student representative.
For example, there is a reduced attendance requirement if you are unable to attend a course for ÖH activities, and your work time is remunerated in the form of Free Elective ECTS. As a member of the Student Union, you also have stronger legal protection so that you cannot be unfairly graded by lecturers due to your work.
Studying with Purpose
Probably the best benefit, however, is the feeling of using your time meaningfully and being able to help people. In our committees, you can also play an active role in shaping the study programme and change things that are currently bothering you (or you can ensure that great things are maintained). The work of the Student Union has a huge impact on the lives of your fellow students - together we endeavour to improve the study experience for everyone.
As an ÖHli, you become part of a community of social people who are driven by exactly that.
We are looking forward to hearing from you!