What do Debates volunteers do?
Volunteers take part in weekly debates on a range of topics. They have an opportunity to travel to a number of competitions up and down the country and are responsible for organising a national competition.
What experience is needed and what commitment is expected?
No experience is necessary, being a Debates volunteer offers students an opportunity to learn. The amount of time volunteers give is up to the individual however regular attendance is encouraged as the more students put in the more they get out of it.
What resources and support is available?
The Debates Society is given an annual budget by USSA, office space on Level 7 of the Union Building and a Debates Chamber on Level 6. Support is directly available from the Vice President Activities & Development.
An integral part of the sessions is training and then learning by doing. The Debates Society invite guest speakers to talk through technique and then evaluate their own speakers offering constructive criticism and advice. Icebreakers, training in oratory, and how to structure and deliver an effective debaters’ speech whilst fielding questions from the floor takes place. Travel expenses are paid for volunteers going to external events and accommodation is organised by the host institution at competitions. Committee members receive a handover from their predecessor and can attend training from the Association.
What will volunteers get out of it?
There are many benefits including: public speaking, negotiation skills, advocacy skills, networking & influencing skills and assertiveness.
How do I join and where can I find out more?
Contact ussa.debatesconvenor@strath.ac.uk or stop by the Student Involvement Zone Level 7 of the Union building.
