Why are you applying for this role?
Since joining Essex four years ago, I've witnessed a variety of challenges that the Student Union has faced, ranging from the impacts of COVID-19 and the Cost-of-Living Crisis to the tense political atmosphere arising from conflicts abroad. Understandably, the University had to make decisions including the postponement and cancellation of numerous services due to the pandemic. However, I find myself questioning why many of these services haven't yet resumed, especially considering the positive impact they had on students previously.
I aim to guarantee that all students receive consistent support from both the SU and the University, ensuring it is responsive to academic, economic, and political changes. Furthermore, I want to ensure nightlife on campus is student-responsive, creating a dynamic nightlife that fits the diverse interests of our students.
Moreover, following the discontinuation of ‘VP International’, one of my focuses is on ensuring that international students, along with marginalised communities, continue to receive the support they might need. While the SU effectively addresses the needs of these communities, I’ll build upon efforts by organising events that encourage integration within these communities.
Joining the SU Trustee Board in 2021, I have worked closely with three different Student Leadership teams. Allowing me to experience the inner workings of the SU, in which I aim to build upon the progress they made, emphasising actions proven to be beneficial for students. Being closely involved with the SU over the years has made my transition to president a natural continuation from my current position.
What skills and experience would you bring to the role?
A significant part of being SU’s President comes from serving as a Trustee, a role in which I’ve served for years. In this, I've built relationships with members from both the SU and university such as directors and the Vice Chancellor. To add to my experience, this responsibility has developed my confidence skills even further in questioning and challenging motions presented to the board to ensure the most suitable outcome and decisions were made for students.
I’ve recently been fortunate to become a Communications Intern for Essex Abroad. Through this, I have focused on finding new ways of connecting with students digitally. As President, I would like to pioneer new and innovative ways of driving student engagement on campus.
When I studied abroad, I became more culturally aware, allowing me to understand both the struggles and joys faced by international and UK students when travelling abroad. Acclimatising to a new environment can be exciting, but not without its challenges. In my time abroad I was exposed to another student community, and I hope to bring insights that worked in their community here to Essex to ensure a smooth transition. Lastly, having experienced these struggles myself, a key focus would be on providing support regarding visas, fostering social integration, and addressing financial challenges.
Most importantly, I am an open and empathetic individual, who always has time to listen and advocate for others and I love a chat so please do come over whether it's in sub-zero or the squares.