Entering my second year of university, I found myself inclined to adopt a more low-key approach to my academic pursuits. This inclination was encapsulated by the notion of ‘keeping my head down,’ a phrase that encapsulated my willingness to deviate from my natural tendencies and adhere to a prescribed modus operandi. Essentially, it signified a commitment to forging ahead and achieving objectives, irrespective of personal inclinations, as it was perceived as the virtuous and esteemed course of action.
This resolve to “keep my head down” materialised as a means of directing my focus towards academic endeavours. My first year at university had been marked by commendable success, culminating in the attainment of a first-class degree and a lauded internship experience. As I was engrossed in my library work, a fellow student from the same academic program approached me with news of an upcoming event. He divulged that he was a member of the University of Leicester Pakistani Society’s committee and that they were organizing a meet and greet. Furthermore, he mentioned the establishment of a new Bengali society and their search for committee members. I decided to extend my support and involvement.
Subsequently, I attended the meet and greet event, which exuded a vibrant atmosphere. We engaged in ice-breaking activities, fostering interactions with a diverse array of fellow students. It was during this event that I was introduced to the committee of the Bengali society. Intrigued, I inquired about potential roles within the committee, and they indicated a need for someone to oversee their social media presence. I promptly expressed my interest, highlighting my recent digital marketing internship.
The following day, I received a message from the committee, expressing their desire to welcome me on board, a proposal that I willingly accepted. Our initial committee meeting took place in a dessert shop, providing an opportunity to acquaint ourselves with those who were available. Together, we embarked on brainstorming ideas for society-related events. I, in particular, harbored ambitious concepts for the society’s future, envisioning a significant impact. Nevertheless, we prudently outlined a pragmatic plan of action. My designated role involved the creation of marketing materials for social media, a task for which my proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and writing aptitude made me well-suited. We posted our first social media content that evening, and the response was overwhelmingly positive, with a substantial level of excitement generated within the community.
As we prepared for our inaugural event, we diligently distributed responsibilities among the committee members. Tasks ranged from food ordering to activity coordination, and, for my part, marketing responsibilities. I designed promotional posters and disseminated them through social media channels. The event proved to be a resounding success, attracting a crowd that exceeded the capacity of the initially reserved seminar room. Security personnel intervened, relocating the event to a lecture hall. During the event, I wrestled with a degree of anxiety, not only in my role as a public speaker but also in managing various aspects of the event. While accustomed to operating behind the scenes and leading the committee from that vantage point, I found it challenging to strike a balance between my responsibilities and sociable interactions.
Subsequently, the post-event gathering unfolded, offering a more relaxed and sociable environment for the committee members to bond. It was the first instance of genuine camaraderie among us.
I wholeheartedly invested my efforts in forging connections with other societies, including the ISOC, Palestinian Society, and UNICEF. I saw myself as an ambassador, keen to facilitate mutual engagement between our society and other communities. As events continued, however, I became increasingly detached from the group, straying from the lighthearted atmosphere to prioritise productivity and focus, ultimately feeling like an outsider. My intense involvement with the society began to consume my mental energy, causing me to neglect my academic responsibilities and relationships with course mates. Realising the necessity to regain my academic focus, I decided to resign from the society, opting to ‘put my head down’ and concentrate on my studies before the Christmas break.
My involvement in the Bengali Society represented an opportunity to connect with people who shared my cultural background and experiences. It also served as a platform to showcase my creative talents, fostering confidence in my public persona as I integrated my identity into the broader society while staying aligned with my values and beliefs.
I harbored a grand vision for the Bengali Society, one that extended beyond the immediate social activities. I aspired to build extensive networks, not only with other societies but also with influential individuals and student leaders. Our teamwork, centred around event planning and execution, resonated with me, as each committee member contributed to the society’s growth. We also adeptly handled issues that arose, collaborating to devise effective solutions.
While the society’s sociable activities were enjoyable, I grappled with their lack of a profound purpose. Many events appeared to be primarily for entertainment or an avenue to meet potential romantic interests, a dynamic I found disconcerting. I believed that the society should emphasize thought leadership and nurture capable individuals who could represent and advocate for the Bengali community. It was my vision to foster the development of young, competent Bengali thought leaders who could confidently express their views on platforms like news programs.
My ultimate goal was to enhance the society’s networking capabilities, bolster the public relations of the Bengali community, and provide a platform for talented individuals to share their thoughts and ideas. I aimed to instil a sense of responsibility in university-educated students, urging them to use their intellect for the greater good.
As my dedication to the society intensified, I inadvertently allowed my academic responsibilities to take a backseat, leading to missed coursework deadlines and a subsequent scramble to rectify the situation. My course mates, accustomed to my studious habits, were perplexed by my sudden shift in priorities, questioning why I had fallen behind in my studies.
Nonetheless, being a committee member of a society facilitated networking opportunities and commanded a level of respect due to the assumption that one could effectively manage academic obligations alongside the society’s commitments. It became a noteworthy addition to my CV, attesting to my leadership and responsibility as a representative of an entire community. Interactions with a diverse array of individuals provided insights into their character and values, fostering deeper connections.
In conclusion, my experience as a committee member of the Bengali Society was marked by a blend of positive and negative aspects. Despite the challenges, I do not regret my involvement, as it granted me valuable experience in a role that demands vision and leadership to steer a society in alignment with its values and member expectations. Balancing this vision with the practical constraints of a university-run society, including financial and time limitations, was a learning experience.
For those contemplating a committee position in a university society, I offer the following advice. Firstly, have a clear understanding of your motivations and vision for the society. Communicate your expectations and the type of society you aim to create. Second, strike a balance between your society commitments and your academic pursuits. Prioritise your degree and only assume the role if you can effectively manage both responsibilities. Finally, if your society commitments begin to encroach on your broader goals, don’t hesitate to step down. Learning to prioritise is essential, and there will be individuals eager to take your place. Interestingly, I found that after my departure, the society’s activities waned, as everyone became increasingly preoccupied with their academic obligations.