As an international student at UEA, I embarked on a transformative journey when I decided to run for the role of Postgraduate Officer at the Students’ Union. Elected to this position, I am driven by a commitment to engage Postgraduate Taught (PGT) and Postgraduate Research (PGR) students in campus life and to foster networking opportunities that enhance their professional growth.
  

My mission has always been clear: to prioritise student voices and ensure that they are heard and acted upon across the university.  

For international students, especially those new to the UEA campus, transitioning smoothly can be challenging. It is crucial that they receive the support and guidance necessary to settle in and thrive from day one.  

The SU stands ready to assist and respond to students’ needs promptly and effectively.  

We welcome all Freshers’; you’re beginning an exciting new journey. Embrace every opportunity, connect with others, and make the most of your time here. We’re here to support you in every step.   

Recent discussions around the Scholars Bar highlight the importance of student feedback. We listened to the concerns of the PG community and worked diligently, within the constraints of our existing space, to provide an alternative solution to their problems.   

While I was initially disappointed by decisions made without consulting incoming officers (including myself and other PG students), I am grateful for the support of the current officer team and the SU Staff. Together, we have managed to secure an alternative social space for our community.

  

Over the past 50 days, we have made significant strides: hosting two open drop-in sessions, establishing The Graduate Centre Forum for PG students to share ideas and suggestions, and conducting an interim PG Committee election that I chaired.   

These efforts underscore our dedication to addressing the needs of the postgraduate community.   

During consultation with the PG Students, they urged for an alternative space, and we have worked our best to find one within the very limited space we have in the union house. The current Media Collective Space will be the dedicated space for PG Students going forward. The new space will be named as ‘Scholars Corner’ and set to open on 23rd of September 2024. 

The Graduate Kitchen is also being decorated to ensure students feel homely, and the Postgraduate Lounge will also be retained for PG Students, and the popular Tuesday Scholars Quiz will continue in the bar as usual. 

I am thankful to the Media Collective for their cooperation in the process of swapping the spaces. I would call the PG Community to organise social events at the lounge and the new Scholar’s Corner, which also gives a wonderful view of the square! Let’s make the most use of our dedicated spaces.   

This year I am aiming towards organising more networking events for the PG Students at faculty levels by the end of January. I look forward to improving the engagement and participation of Postgrads in clubs and societies, and to introduce Postgrad representatives to ensure that Postgrad voices are heard and represented.   

For  PGT students, my key focus will be on working on employability. I will also strongly urge for increase in funding for the PGR students considering the raise in cost of living. All of this shall result in building a stronger community for Postgrads at UEA.  

 I know it will be hard to do all of these within a year’s time, but I am committed to doing it regardless of how hard it is going to be. There’s need for a change in the system, and this is the beginning of the transformation.   

To me, students voice and interest will be the topmost priority. I am here as the Postgraduate Officer to work for them and protect their interests – there will be no compromise on it.  

I am working at the grassroots level and reaching out to as many students and student reps to collect their feedback and suggestions to enhance their experience at UEA. I would like to state that the Students Union is here to work for the students and protect their interests. It is very important for us to do what our students ask us of, rather than act in our own interests. 

All students at UEA are the members of UEA SU, so please reach out to your Students Union if you need any support, we will make sure that our members are prioritised and supported, because the students are the core pillars of our organisation.   

This is not the end of our journey. I am committed to continuing our efforts to secure another dedicated social space on campus. The voice of the PG community is powerful, and with your support and cooperation, we can achieve our goals. Together, we will enhance the UEA experience for all students.