Emma Rose with Leeds second year student Andy Moore: the pair were amongst 48 newcomers at this year's conference.
"I was nervous before going that I wouldn’t understand the majority of the motions but the entire conference was very welcoming to new delegates, especially students."
City University second year Emma Rose was one of 48 newcomers at this year's Annual Delegates Conference. She joined 170 other delegates from across the UK at the venue in Leeds.
A hugely important event in the SoR calendar, the ADC is held over three days each year. It gives members the opportunity to put forward ideas for delegates to debate and vote on, creating Society policy.
Explains Emma, "The ADC consists of a series of motions that the delegates vote on. If a motion is passed then the SoR council will discuss the potential to make the motion into official policy."
The motions varied from uniform policies to overtime pay, and some sparked hot debates.
So what has this got to do with students?
There was a welcome session on the first night for newcomers that explained the conference and enabled them to ask any questions.
"Some of the motions directly relate to students and education. This year, this included a motion for the council to investigate student dropout rates. Many of the motions relate to subjects and topics will also become relevant on qualification."
"It’s not all serious though. The evenings allow plenty of time for socialising and a few drinks," said Emma. "On the second night there is a formal dinner during which the SoR Rep of the Year is announced. Post dinner there is even chance for some cheesy dancing!"
Also amongst the student delegation was Amanda McKenna, a radiotherapy undergraduate currently on placement at Poole. She explained her reasons for attending:
"I am very enthusiastic about unions, I like to have an input. My ethos is: if you dont take an active part you have no right to complain when things don't go the way you would like them to.
"I met other students and made contacts with staff from hospitals were I may go on placement. I felt like being part of the wider radiography family. I had a great time."
Both students said they would encourage others to attend ADC next year. Concluded Emma: "Being there as a student means that we are influencing the future of our profession and attending a conference is also something that looks great on your CV. I certainly hope I will be attending again!"
• In next month's Student Talk we meet the new Student Observers to SoR Council, chosen at this year's ADC congress.
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