The intermediate academic body in the Senate

USI's intermediate academic body is also represented in the Academic Senate, which comprises PhD students-assistants, postdoctoral assistants, teaching and scientific collaborators, atelier collaborators-architects, lecturer-researchers and lecturers on an annual contract with main activity at USI. Here is the testimony of Elena Battaglia, PhD assistant in Italian Linguistics at the Institute of Italian Studies (ISI) and representative of the intermediate body in the Senate.

Elena Battaglia, how do you rate your experience as a member of the Academic Senate?

"My experience in the Senate has been very positive. I have witnessed firsthand the complexities of the processes that govern our university and appreciate the commitment of various members to effectively serving the USI community. I found a strong willingness to engage with and consider the proposals coming from the intermediate body."

How can the Senate contribute positively to the work of USI's intermediate body? And what would you say to a colleague who is undecided whether or not to run for representative?

"The intermediate body is very diverse and often faces precarious situations. For me, it was crucial to understand how issues such as mobility and career progression, which are problematic for us, are frequently discussed. The decisions made in the Senate can significantly impact the future, so I wholeheartedly encourage colleagues to apply. It is essential to maintain a diversity of backgrounds. As a PhD student in Communication, I have found it enriching to engage not only with members of other bodies but also with representatives of the intermediate body from various faculties."

What does it mean, practically speaking, to represent the intermediate body in the Senate? Can you share an example of an initiative or proposal discussed during your term of office?

"It practically means regular discussions with the other representatives of the intermediate body and participation in various committees and working groups. A significant amount of work is accomplished in these meetings, focusing on issues that are then presented during sessions. We are not only called to vote but also to actively contribute to drafting proposals. I am thinking, for example, of the creation of a corporation of the intermediate academic body along the lines of those found at other Swiss universities, as well as increasing the representation of the intermediate body in the university and in the recruitment notice committees; issues that we have dealt with during the term of office that is now drawing to a close. I have also personally participated in the work of the President's Office, where the meeting agenda is drawn up with members of the Rectorate and the other bodies."