HSU Elections

Why do you want to be elected as President of Hallam SU?

Being elected to work within the current Officer Team, representing student voice and supporting the student body at Hallam has been a huge privilege. I have had the opportunity to lead on important issues and projects that really matter to students, such as advancing our Cheaper Transport campaign, promoting our Wellbeing Support offer and taking your feedback to the highest level of the University.

I am a keen organiser and a competent leader who would love the opportunity to thrive in a role where it is imperative to make effective change and continue to improve and shape our Students' Union.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good Officer?

Following my Master's degree, I have spent the last 7 months as the current Social Sciences & Arts College Officer and Deputy President at the Students' Union. This experience has been invaluable in equipping me with the knowledge, skills and insight to be your next President and lead a team of Officers into the new academic year. I will draw on the positive relationships I have already built with teams at the Union and across the University, and continue to work on important projects and campaigns that aim to ensure your student experience is the best it can be.

Which three HSU policies do you think are the most important?

• Cost of living
• Mental health and wellbeing support
• University communications

What other two issues/topics should be prioritised by your role?

As your President, it would be my responsibility to represent our Students' Union at a regional and national level, working on projects and policies that are bigger than just Hallam. I think it is really important to work to address the sector-wide concerns around the gaps in financial support, improving maintenance loans so they actually cover the rising cost of living for all students. As well as broader issues like lobbying the University to take a more moral stance on the careers we choose to promote, supporting Fossil Free and Arms Free Careers campaigns that are more sustainable and ethical.

Why do you want to be elected as International Students' Officer?

I am passionate about ensuring that international students are fully supported and represented at Hallam. During my time as an International Student Officer, I have worked hard to deliver on my manifesto and have successfully implemented flexible fee payment plans, organised International student social events, business competition and also advocated for employability. However, there's more to be done, such as creating more job and internship opportunities, university policies and feeling truly supported. If re-elected, I will continue working to make sure that all international students feel valued and supported throughout their time at Hallam.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good Officer?

My role as an International Students' Officer has given me experience in leadership, problem-solving, and student advocacy. My ability to collaborate with university stakeholders, engage with diverse student groups, and take decisive action has allowed me to make real changes. Also, my experience in event planning, policy discussions has improved my ability to represent and support the international student community more effectively.

Which three HSU policies do you think are the most important?

• Cost of living
• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Academic misconduct and University regulations

What other two issues/topics should be prioritised by your role?

Flexible learning options: Such as hybrid courses or online study options, to accommodate different student needs, especially for those with health issues, work commitments, or other challenges.

University communication is important for all students especially for international students about policies, visas, placements, misconduct procedures. Making sure that students are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities, deadlines, and support services can easily reduce confusion and help students more effectively.

Why do you want to be elected as Wellbeing, Sport & Physical Activity Officer?

As a current officer, I've built strong relationships with university staff, gaining valuable insight into how to support students effectively. I've much to offer in further developing a unified wellbeing and sports community, building on ongoing projects while exploring new initiatives!

Supporting students' wellbeing and providing more opportunities for physical activity are my top priorities. My own university experience was incredibly fulfilling, and I want others to have the same, or better, experience.

I've led on key initiatives, including wellbeing, club and student financial aid, varsity engagement, expanding access to sport and providing more sporting opportunities for international students.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good Officer?

As a current officer, representing students IS my top priority.

At university, I've been highly engaged, holding leadership roles such as Vice President, Treasurer, and Charity Officer across several sports clubs. This gave me experience managing events and finances, while building leadership and communication skills.

With a Sports related degree and competing in multiple Sport Hallam clubs, I understand the positive impact sport has on mental health.

I've enhanced public speaking skills, allowing me to effectively advocate for students. Strong organisational skills, developed through a busy schedule, enable me to achieve positive outcomes while staying involved in university life.

Which three HSU policies do you think are the most important?

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Cost of living
• Timetabling

What other two issues/topics should be prioritised by your role?

Inclusive Practice - Sports and societies should be accessible to all, encouraging clubs and students to prioritise the inclusion of minority groups. Clubs should be motivated to adopt best practices related to equality, diversity, and inclusion. I believe it is vital for everyone to feel welcomed and valued in the university environment.

Promote Physical Activity - Make social sports accessible to everyone, especially during the cost-of-living crisis. Students need affordable or free opportunities to participate in sports. The goal is to promote sports at Hallam, encouraging as many students as possible to stay active and engaged.

Why do you want to be elected as Business, Technology & Engineering Officer?

I am passionate about the inclusion of students' perspectives in decisions that concern them. I believe this can enhance student experience and performance while shaping a university system that empowers students with diverse needs. As a course representative, I have gained insights into key student concerns. Therefore, my goal as an Education officer is to represent student voices at the college level to address issues such as academic resource accessibility, mental health support, and the cost of living crisis. I hope to foster a more empowering community within the College of Business Technology and Engineering where all students can thrive.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good Officer?

Through my work experience, I have developed key skills in active listening, communication, adaptability, and strategic thinking. In project management roles, I gained an understanding of resource and time management, budgeting, stakeholder engagement, and a systematic approach to collaboration to achieve established objectives within set timelines. Additionally, my professional experience has largely focused on addressing issues that impact well-being, through which I've cultivated empathy, compassion, and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life. Currently, as a course representative, I have gained insight into university policies regarding students' rights, preparing me for the role of Education Officer within the BTE.

Which three HSU policies do you think are the most important?

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Inclusive practice and lecture capture
• Cost of living

What other two issues/topics should be prioritised by your role?

The following will be prioritized in my role:

Course Rep Alliance:

Encouraging collaboration among course representatives within BTE programs is crucial. This initiative can foster a shared understanding and collaborative efforts regarding student issues, thus enhancing the link between students and the HSU. Course representatives are a vital connection to the student body; improving collaboration among them can increase their effectiveness.

Student Support Services:

Resources should be expanded to assist students in managing their workloads, as high workloads negatively impact students' learning experiences, leading to heightened stress and academic challenges. Tackling these issues requires close attention to ensure student satisfaction.

Why do you want to be elected as Health, Wellbeing & Life Sciences Officer?

I'm Leah Steel - I'm not made of actual Steel, but I am ready to bring some solid change to Hallam! After 4 years at Hallam completing my undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences College, I feel I can be the voice for students to make real changes. As a course rep for my MSc in Sport Business Management, I've learned how important it is to listen to the issues that affect students and represent their needs. I would now like to become an officer so I can connect students' wants with the university's actions.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good Officer?

As a course rep I've represented students in meetings with course leaders, ensuring the students issues are heard by those who have the power to make changes within the university. I've organised events for my course to help us come together, recognising that although we all came from different places, we share the same journey and goal. Outside of university, I play rugby which builds resilience, teamwork and the ability to perform under pressure - all key skills I'll bring to the officer role. Your vote will ensure that your voice is heard and will turn your concerns into actions.

Which three HSU policies do you think are the most important?

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Inclusive practice and lecture capture
• Timetabling

What other two issues/topics should be prioritised by your role?

More Hands-On Learning

We need real-world experience, not just lectures. I'll work to expand volunteering and paid opportunities, plus aim to build stronger links with local healthcare, sport and wellbeing organisations. Let's gain skills without the extra stress!

Placement Costs & Travel Support

Placements are expensive and I know the struggle of balancing costs with studies. I'll push for bursaries, better travel support and local options to ease the financial pressure. No one should have to choose between their degree and finances!

Why do you want to be elected as Social Sciences & Arts Officer?

I am excited to run for Education Officer for College of Social Sciences & Arts because I believe every student deserves a supportive, inclusive, and enriching academic experience. With leadership experience as Youth President in my church and Public Relations Officer/Director of Socials at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, I have developed strong communication, advocacy, and problem-solving skills all essential for effectively representing and supporting students. If elected, I will prioritize academic feedback improvements, student well-being, cost-of-living support, inclusive curriculum development, ensuring lecture recordings are available to improve learning for all Hallam students.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good Officer?

As an experienced leader, I have excellent communication, advocacy, and problem-solving skills. My experience as Youth President in my church and Public Relations Officer/Director of Socials at the University of Nigeria Nsukka has equipped me with strong leadership, teamwork, and student engagement abilities. I have successfully organized student-focused programs, liaised with stakeholders, and ensured student opinions were heard. These experiences have prepared me to listen, represent, and advocate for students effectively while working with university leadership to drive meaningful change. I am confident that my passion, commitment, and leadership experience make me the ideal candidate for Education Officer.

Which three HSU policies do you think are the most important?

• University Communications
• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Cost of living

What other two issues/topics should be prioritised by your role?

As an aspiring Education Officer-College of Social Sciences & Arts, I believe two key issues affecting students in our college should be prioritized:

1. Inclusive Curriculum and Decolonization: Students have expressed concerns about the lack of diversity and representation in course materials. I aim to work with academics to review and revise curricula, ensuring they are inclusive, diverse, and representative of all students.

2. Academic Feedback and Assessment: Students often express concerns about delayed feedback, unclear assessment criteria, and lack of academic support. I will work with academics to improve feedback mechanisms, ensure transparent assessment processes, and provide additional academic support.