What is an Academic Rep
Academic Reps are part of Academic Assembly and Faculty Assembly, which form a central part of the Union’s democratic structures and systems. Academic Assembly consists of all academic reps across all 4 faculties, while the 4 Faculty Assemblies consists of the reps within each of the 4 faculties. Academic Assembly meets as and when necessary and Faculty Assemblies meet 3 times each semester - this is mainly where you’ll interact with your SU officers and discuss academic issues and topics
What do Academic Reps do?
Academic Reps communicate with their classmates both online and in person to gauge their views on topics such as the modules they’re undertaking, issues around exams, assignment deadlines and timetable clashes. They will attend meetings with their respective Faculty Convenor and VP Academic Affairs where they can bring up these issues and seek advice and solutions for the issue. They will also attend meeting with lecturers where they can give a student perspective on their experience in modules and classes. This process is integral to quality assurance and enhancement.
Why is this role important
Academic reps are an important part of the Student’s Union work in addressing, solving and mitigating academic issues and ensuring the best academic experience for MU and SPPU students. Since our VPAA and 3 Faculty Convenors can’t be everywhere at once. Due to the number of courses, subjects, modules and students in both Maynooth University and St. Pats Pontifical University, we rely on our Academic Representative system to make us aware of academic issues, help us solve academic problems and ensure there is a level of Union presence and support throughout the different classes and courses.
What is a Faculty Convenor?
Faculty Convenors acts as the main representative for students within their faculty (i.e. Social Sciences), chairing the Faculty Assembly and serving as the key link between academic reps and the Union Executive. They are responsible for leading discussions on academic issues, supporting the development of student-focused policies, and ensuring student concerns are effectively communicated to the VPAA.