Why are you applying for this role?

I believe in an equitable, value-for-money education powered by student voice where everyone can live and learn comfortably. There's a tough time ahead, and I want to use my strong experience to build on my success and give you the representation you deserve.

I've achieved a lot so far, but with a full grasp of how everything works and with established connections, I know I can take things even further.

My 5 Priorities:

1. Turbocharging Student Voice: I will hone in on the nuts and bolts of representation to ensure you are listened to and you have the power to create real change.
2. Making Education Engaging: Continuing the good progress I have made, I will lead work to revolutionise education delivery so we can say goodbye to lecturers reading off slides and enjoy an active learning experience.
3. Living and Learning Comfortably: With cost of living pressures, the rise in the need to commute and increased caring responsibilities, University systems such as timetabling, activities and communications are outdated and don't allow everyone to thrive. You deserve an education that works for you. 
4. Including Everyone: One of my favourite things about Essex is that it's such a diverse community, everyone has vastly different backgrounds and experiences. I will advocate for accessibility, awareness and respect.
5. Skills, Skills, Skills: I launched new initiatives such as the Skills Cafe, giving students the support they need the most. I will keep pushing so you're equipped to earn a degree and a job

What skills and experience would you bring to the role?

As VP Education for the past year, I've had huge success on major projects to improve academic delivery in the University, led plans to make education engaging, build belonging, and campaigned to improve the UK higher education system. I'm a skilled communicator and relationship-builder who knows what they're doing and how to deliver results.

In my spare time, I work to make the world a better place. I served on the Advisory Board of Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation which works to make the world a kinder, braver place and remove the stigma surrounding mental health. I’m experienced at leading non-profit organisations and ensuring they deliver maximum impact. In the past year as a Trustee of the SU, I've never been afraid to challenge the organisation to do the best thing for students.

Education transformed my life. I went from being a low-performing student in a deprived seaside town, to someone who made the Dean's List, earned a first-class degree, won a regional Dream 100 'Student of the Year Award', hosted 3 TEDx events, won an award for outstanding contribution to Rebel and was given the Essex Newspapers Award for Communications for revitalising the college magazine and creating extracurricular opportunities. I've used my communications skills to generate the most engagement with student voice at the University ever and I have had a transformational effect on how academic representation at the SU is perceived, gaining vital respect.

I don't just believe hard work leads to success, I know it.