An Alumni’s Guide on The Wins of Voting and How To Do It!
By: Mayra
Some students won’t vote because it might feel like an additional chore, while others have the misconception that voting doesn’t change anything. I used to think the same way. But after seeing how the SSU works from the inside, I’m here to tell you that your vote carries way more weight than you think. It’s how you, indirectly, decide who handles the SSU money and who fights for your rights.
Here is exactly why (and how) your vote makes a difference:
First, let’s remember the SSU is a student-led organization representing all fee-paying students at Sheridan College.
When you head to the polls, you are voting for your SSU Board of Directors. At the heart of the SSU is our Board of Directors, a group of 12 students elected by their peers to represent you and your student needs and drive real change on campus.
Help the SSU Work Better FOR YOU
Simply put, when you vote, you’re helping the SSU to develop initiatives and solutions for the challenges affecting YOUR Sheridan life. If you’re passionate about a particular aspect of your student experience, you’ll naturally want to support a candidate who actively advocates for those specific areas. Your vote is the direct link between what you need and what the SSU prioritizes.
Decide Where the Money Goes
The Board of Directors approve where the SSU budget goes. If you don’t speak up about what matters to you, who will? 🧐 When you vote for your Board of Directors, you’re not just selecting a random name; you’re making sure your needs are represented at the highest levels of SSU leadership. As a result, you have a say — through your elected board members — on how SSU funds are used.
Provincial & Federal Advocacy for ALL
The SSU Board of Directors does more than just oversee campus life—they ensure your voice is heard at the provincial and federal levels. By approving our membership in organizations like the Ontario Student Voices (OSV) and the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA), the Board empowers us to advocate for both international and domestic students.
This advocacy is vital when laws change. For example, the Government of Ontario recently announced significant updates to OSAP funding. These shifts impact every student relying on financial aid, and having an informed Board means having the right peers at the table to protect your rights.
Beyond policy, the Board’s budget approvals directly provide you with essential resources, such as free legal advice for a variety of student issues. Making an informed decision in this election ensures you have representatives ready to fight for your interests now and in any future shifts in student law.
Your Life Outside the Classroom Matters
The SSU does more than just advocate; it organizes on- and off-campus events, supports the creation of student clubs, connects students to perk partners, and more! The SSU provides spaces for you to connect, grow, and have fun. Voting ensures those in charge are equipped with the resources to deliver the most fulfilling student experience possible at Sheridan.
Meet Your Campus Candidates During Campaign Week 🫱🏼🫲🏽
Now that you know why your vote matters, it’s time to meet your candidates! I’ve put together a quick walkthrough video to show you exactly how to navigate our candidates page.
Meet Them in Person at our Campus Pop-ups ☕
During campaign week, the SSU and candidates will be hosting pop-up events across all three campuses, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet the students running for office, dive into their platforms, and ask the questions that matter to you.
Prepare to Vote (March 16th – March 20th) ✅
When voting week arrives, keep a close eye on your student email. You’ll receive an official link to cast your ballot directly from your inbox. If you’re on campus, look for our student representatives walking the halls; they’ll be there to answer any last-minute questions and help you cast your vote in person.
Stay Tuned for Results 👀
After the polls close, the SSU will verify the ballots and announce the new Board of Directors. Remember, the candidates running are students just like you! They have a genuine passion for representing their peers and making a positive impact on campus. Whether your candidate wins or not, participating in the SSU elections is a huge win for Sheridan’s student democracy.
Stay Informed On All Things SSU!
From elections to new and exciting food spots, stay connected and informed about how the Sheridan Student Union is creating a better experience for all students.
Recently, the Government of Ontario announced significant changes to the province’s post-secondary funding model and OSAP. Read the official statement and letter from our SSU Student Executive Director, Samiya Khan, and current Board of Directors in response to the changes.