As the NTSU Exec Team elections are nearing, we got in touch with the three candidates running for the VP Education role to help you decide who to vote for.
The VP Education coordinates the work of Course Representatives and School Representatives and chairs the Academic Representatives Assembly.
They attend meetings of the Academic Standards and Quality Committee as well as the Academic Board, the highest academic decision-making bodies in the University.
They actively campaign to improve the academic experience of students at Nottingham Trent University.
Here is what this year’s VP Education candidates had to say.
Jess Walker – third-year BA Business
Why are you fit for the VP Education role?
VP Education, for me, is the most significant position for university students. Education is, after all, the main reason most students come to university. I have noticed that there is a discrepancy between student input and university degrees, and I believe that this needs to be changed. Students want their £9,250 to be visible, not just to know where their money is going, but to actually see it in the teaching and their university experience – I can be part of this transparency and be the students’ voice as VP Education.
I have seen a significant lack of feedback between students and faculty members and believe there is a gap in this system that could be filled with more student input and increased support for my peers. VP Education is the representative for all things education, so I want to use this as a platform to help students express their voice and ensure the change they want is established.
I am running to give all students a more accessible opportunity at placements as they, alongside their degree education, are fundamental to life after graduation. These employment opportunities are invaluable, and every student deserves to access them. My final manifesto point looks predominantly at increasing support for external placement opportunities, but as VP Education, I will push for all-around support for every student.
What sets you apart from the other candidates?
Like many students, I came to university during the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. I knew my time at Nottingham Trent was going to be different than expressed in previous years, but I was determined to persevere with my education and gain a degree.
I can relate to most students’ frustration when they say that they are still not listened to – that they don’t know what their fees are being spent on. Having worked in a students’ union at my college, I know how to communicate from students to senior management (and back) and know that I will be able to fully represent the students in the way that they deserve.
Having engaged with both Nottingham Trent University and Nottingham Trent Students’ Union on various levels, I understand how these two elements of the university communicate with one another – this is very important in the role of VP Education. This dialogue needs to be stable and accessible. I believe that I am suited to this role because I know how to establish a relationship between the two, ultimately getting the best response for students.
Name one way through which you are planning to improve the students’ academic experience if elected.
In a nutshell, support for students. My manifesto points express the need for increased support for students and a more consistent system for doing this. I have heard people say ‘your time at university is what you make of it’, but I don’t think this is altogether fair or true. Yes, students themselves are a big part of having a great university experience, but they are here because they want to be educated and earn a degree, and if this side falls down, then there is only so far their experience can go.
I believe there is a massive need for camaraderie between students and those in charge. It is expected that students work hard, but I don’t think it is unjust for students to expect, in return, the support that can help them achieve good results. Whether this means advice and help in work opportunities, or simply a communication network – students need support. If elected, I would work hard to increase this support in ways that can relate to every student.
Mariam Abukamar – third-year BA Business Management, Accounting and Finance
Why are you fit for the VP Education role?
First and foremost, I am passionate about education and its transformative power. Additionally, from my previous experiences as school officer, course rep and student mentor I was able to work closely with students and leaders at NTU to have a clear understanding of the challenges that we face in our academic journey. I believe I have the skills and experience needed to help address these challenges.
I am committed to being a leader and making a positive impact in our community which is why I am running for VP Education. Throughout my time at NTU, the roles I participated in helped me develop strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills which I believe will be essential in leading the education portfolio of our students’ union. My top priority would be to promote academic success for all students and ensure that students feel supported at all times.
What sets you apart from the other candidates?
My passion for education and my desire to have a positive impact on the student body come first. I am committed to finding solutions because, as a student, I am aware of the challenges we face daily.
My extensive leadership experience has given me the opportunity to take part in a range of initiatives that have improved students’ academic experiences and taught me how to collaborate successfully with a variety of people.
For instance, I believe that students who might be experiencing academic difficulties or other challenges that might be hindering their potential to achieve their goals need additional support. This includes developing programmes to assist students in managing their stress and their time well.
I am certain that I will be able to represent your interests and strive for your needs thanks to my ability to communicate clearly with students, teachers, and administrators.
Fourthly, I have a creative problem-solving approach and confidence in my ability to overcome any challenges that may arise. I am confident that I can find the best solutions to meet the needs of all students, whether it be developing new programmes to support students, looking for ways to make education more accessible to everyone, or addressing any other issues that may arise.
Name one way through which you are planning to improve the students’ academic experience if elected.
Several institutions in the UK have noticed an increase in the number of students experiencing stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Encouraging student mental health and well-being is essential for raising engagement levels and academic achievement. For that reason, I would like to pair students with a well-being specialist to help them overcome any mental health issues that may be affecting their academic achievement.
Furthermore, programs that emphasise experiential learning, like internships and study abroad can help students develop important skills and experiences while improving their mental health so I would like to create more of these opportunities! Moreover, I aim to create a more encouraging and interesting learning environment that benefits the mental and academic well-being of all students by putting into practice more strategies like encouraging a culture of well-being, implementing mindfulness practises, and using active learning and experiential education.
Shreyasi Hazra – MA Luxury Fashion Brand Management
Why are you fit for the VP Education role?
I am running for the position of VP Education 2023/24 to focus on student experience and academic representation by ensuring they receive all the support and empower students to get involved in different opportunities outside their course and be a part of the NTU Community. I also believe that this opportunity will shape me into a good leader and listener and will also help me gain more experience to enhance my skillsets.
What sets you apart from the other candidates?
I am a mature student and the course representative of my course that gives me the experience of working closely in a team with the students and making sure they are satisfied with their learning experience.
Name one way through which you are planning to improve the students’ academic experience if elected.
If elected I would definitely work more on student opportunities, making strong student engagement as well as making a good learning experience. This can be achieved through cross-course collaboration that will also develop their interpersonal skills.
I would also like to work on student identity and inclusivity by making sure every student receives the appropriate support and opportunities equally, irrespective of their campus or course.
The candidates’ full manifestos can be read here.
For more information about when hustings and voting will take place, click here.