NUS International Students Conference

April 28-29th 2010.

I Attended the NUS international Students Conference, with Arun (Democracy VP). So some people might be saying "hey Ken you're not an International Student, why go to the conference?". Well quite simple, I want to be a president for everyone and will not just focus on one type of student. I knew that I would still benefit form attending this conference and be able gain valuable insight and info that will help me to better understand the needs of International Students.


This was an interesting conference with lots of contacts and information available for International Students. The first session was by Dominic Scott of UKCISA. She talked about issues affecting International Students (I.S.) areas covered Fees, Teaching and Learning, Student Services, Visa & ID cards and employment. She feels that Universities should declare the total price of fees and study/course costs for the whole term of study. Other sessions and talks were by, Kristine Murray- International Exec at UCAS, Academic Representation & International Students by Mike Heffron, Workshop by Joanna Purkis-NUS Project Officer- How To Make SU’s more International and a workshop titled Listening To International Students by Mike Heffron of NUS Scotland.

I was not eligible to Vote as I am a Home Student, but I enjoyed speaking to the candidates. I was happy that Christina Yan Zhang was elected with a hugh majority.

I also wrote a policy Motion for confrence on Cultural Shock. We did not have time to debate it, but I called for it to be passed over to the NEC. Since then it has passed and will become part of NUS policy for the next 3 years. Details of the motion can be found on NUS website, http://www.officeronline.co.uk

At the end of the confrence I made some really good contacts that I'm sure will help me through a busy and productive year in office.