While academic study is the primary reason for joining a college or university, there is much to be gained from outside the classroom. Participation in extracurricular activities develops skills in students that are essential for all-round personality development. One such activity that instills management and leadership qualities in students is being a part of their student union executive.

A student union executive is run by students of the school who are elected by a majority vote. The union represents the interest of the students, both within the institution as well as outside. The fact that the student union executive is responsible for the general welfare of the students makes it more responsibility-heavy than the average extracurricular activity.

A student union executive is generally headed by a president, who is often followed in hierarchy by one or several vice-presidents and sectional heads. Members of the student union executive are expected to understand the welfare requirements of the students, and work within the union framework to fulfill those requirements. As the union executive is divided into several committees the roles and responsibilities are divided amongst the members.

As part of their student welfare activities, one of the most important roles of the student union is to make new students feel comfortable in the institution. "Specialist centres" are generally set up to assist students throughout their time in the college. Counselling sessions are also set up by the student union executive for students who require counselling from professionals.

Another important role of the student union executive is to create an environment that is conducive to learning as well as socializing for the students. Generally the student union executive has a committee that is solely dedicated to the promotion of extracurricular activities in the institution. Members of this committee are responsible for organizing clubs, fraternities, and various sporting and non-sporting events. As freshmen are most likely to make new friends at these clubs and events, it becomes essential to promote awareness about them in the institute.

The twofold benefit of being a part of the student union executive is that it promotes personal growth as well as the welfare of fellow students. On a personal level, student union executive members learn how to work in a bureaucracy as a team member. They acquire leadership, analytical and conflict mediation skills. Furthermore, the union executive members feel more connected to their institution and get to know its working in a detailed manner.•

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