Give a voice to student members and shape the future of nursing

Being on the Students Committee firstly involves attending five committee meetings per year, either in person at the RCN’s London HQ or online. As a committee member, you will also work very closely with the Student Ambassadors in Scotland, ensuring that they are heard and that the issues they raise are addressed either directly through the committee or through your regional area. You will also be funded to attend RCN Congress and will be involved in the planning of the annual Student Ambassador conference. The role is about representing and being the voice for student nurses and future registered nurses. This means you will also have the opportunity to attend Government-led meetings to help shape the future of nursing, and you may also be invited to attend university events to encourage new nursing students to join the RCN. There are so many great opportunities within the committee role.

There have been so many highlights from my time on the committee. I’ve made some valuable professional connections with nursing leaders and made some fantastic new friends within the committee. I absolutely loved attending and presenting at Congress for the past two years, feeling that Congress buzz and the sense of nursing community. One of my biggest highlights has been having a platform to campaign for neurodivergent nurses which was one of the goals I set out to achieve when I joined the committee.

I’ve met some wonderful nurse leaders through my role, who have strengthened my knowledge and understanding of the profession. The experience has really developed my confidence, and I have enhanced my public speaking, decision making, leadership and team working skills. This opportunity has also enriched my insight into strategy, policy and conduct within meetings, all of which will be really advantageous for taking forward my nursing career.

It might be nerve wracking to put yourself forward, but I say go for it. There will be lots of fantastic opportunities awaiting the successful candidate. Really sell yourself and all your skills and experience to demonstrate what you can bring to the role. Most importantly be yourself. I would be so honoured to pass the baton on to a passionate student nurse to represent Scotland. All the best if you plan to go for election!

Are you ready to follow in Chloe's footsteps by standing for election to the RCN Students Committee? Submit your nomination by 4:30pm on Wednesday 11 October. Find out more here.