Meet your candidates

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

I am in my final year of Hallam, I am in my second running year as a course rep where I spend time collecting feedback from my peers and sharing this in meetings with others. Through this I was able to receive student rep of the month in 2023. I am also apart of the education society as the treasurer where I oversee all the finances of the society as well as support the budgeting and attend meetings and present to members.

I am confident that with the skills I have developed over my time at Hallam that I will make a good fit for this role.

What do you think the Students' Union should focus on in the coming year?

The union works extremely hard to put on events for students to make new friends and make the most of the university life. I believe that the union could provide more social events suitable for students that commute into university as these students are less likely to socialise with others. If elected I would find alternative ways to support this category of students in the aim of planning social events that may suit their needs such as earlier finishes. I also believe that the union may benefit from more life skill sessions such as first aid.

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

As a dedicated student and course rep I am aware of how important it is for students to be heard and involved in their academic life.

I believe this role requires a strong voice with a great understanding of commitment and collaboration, which I can confidently navigate.

I trust in my ability to make the student voices heard and get involved in the development and future of our Students' Union. With over four years of experience in the management industry, I excel at tackling challenges, solving problems and helping implement new ideas that will benefit Hallam Students.

If I am elected as a Student Trustee, I will ensure that key issues are addressed, the quality of student life is improved, and the Union is taken care of.

What do you think the Students' Union should focus on in the coming year?

The Students' Union plays a crucial role in a student's life, offering a great place to get involved and get out of your comfort zone. In the coming year, the Sheffield Hallam Union should focus on improving the quality of student life while supporting and driving students towards academic success.

Mental health, connectivity, financial and physical safety, employability, diversity, equality and inclusion are all key points that the Students' Union should keep addressing and improving every step of the way. Funding societies, 'Give It A Go' activities or Volunteering Events are just a few of the things that could change the whole experience for a student.

The Students' Union is and should continue to be a student-centred organisation inspired to make an impact.

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

As a current master's student in Global Communications and Media at Sheffield Hallam University, I believe I’m well-suited to be a student union trustee. My experience has given me a solid understanding of the diverse needs of our student body, and I genuinely care about making our university experience better for everyone.

I’ve been actively involved in various student groups and initiatives, which has helped me connect with students from different backgrounds and disciplines. I’ve listened to their concerns and ideas, and I’m passionate about bringing those voices to the table. I know firsthand the challenges students face, whether it’s managing coursework, finding support services, or navigating campus life, and I want to help address these issues.

My studies in communications have equipped me with the skills to effectively communicate and collaborate with others. I’m a firm believer in the power of teamwork and transparency, and I want to ensure that all students feel represented and heard.

As a trustee, my goal will be to foster a sense of community and inclusion, making sure our union truly reflects the needs of all students. I’m committed to working hard, being approachable, and championing initiatives that will make a real difference in our student experience. Together, we can create a vibrant and supportive environment for everyone at Sheffield Hallam.

What do you think the Students' Union should focus on in the coming year?

As we look ahead to the coming year, the Student Union should prioritize a few key areas that really resonate with us as students. First and foremost, let's focus on enhancing mental health support. We all know how tough university life can be, so having more accessible resources like counseling services and wellness programs is essential. We should create a safe space for students to talk about their struggles and promote activities that help everyone unwind and connect.

Next up is academic support. With so many of us juggling studies, jobs, and personal lives, let’s push for more tutoring options and study workshops. Collaboration among students can make a huge difference, and setting up peer-led study groups could really help us all succeed.

We should also work on inclusivity and diversity within the Union. It’s crucial that every student feels represented and valued, regardless of their background. Organizing events that celebrate different cultures and identities can foster a more welcoming environment for everyone.

Lastly, let’s not forget about sustainability. Encouraging greener practices on campus can benefit our environment and create a sense of community responsibility. Simple initiatives, like recycling drives and reducing single-use plastics, can go a long way.

By focusing on these areas, we can build a stronger, more supportive community that truly reflects our needs and values. Let’s make this year one for positive change!

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

As a third-year therapeutic radiography student and a mature student, I am eager to apply for the role of Student Trustee. My passion for supporting those impacted by cancer drives my commitment to student welfare, advocacy, and inclusion. In my second year, I served as a student representative, where I actively listened to my peers, addressed their concerns, and worked collaboratively with staff to improve the student experience. This role strengthened my leadership and communication skills.

My background in sales and marketing has equipped me with strong project management, communication, and organisational skills, which I believe can benefit the Student Union’s engagement efforts and campaign planning. I’m particularly dedicated to promoting health and well-being among students and creating a more inclusive environment where mature students and those with diverse needs feel fully supported.

I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the Union's mission, advocate for students, and ensure every voice is heard.

What do you think the Students' Union should focus on in the coming year?

In the coming year, I believe the Students' Union should prioritise three key areas: mental health support, inclusivity, and academic success.

First, the mental health challenges students face are more prominent than ever. Expanding access to counselling services, creating peer support networks, and promoting mental well-being across campus should be a top priority. Students need to feel that help is available when they need it most.

Second, inclusivity should be at the forefront. The Union must work to ensure all students, regardless of their background, age, or situation, feel represented. This includes more targeted support for mature students, international students, and those with additional responsibilities, like family or work.

Finally, academic success is crucial, especially as students continue to adjust to hybrid and online learning environments. Offering workshops on study skills, time management, and career planning will help students thrive academically and prepare for life beyond university. By focusing on these areas, the Union can significantly improve the student experience, helping everyone feel supported and empowered.

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

As a student trustee, I will work within a dynamic team dedicated to advocating for the student union's best interests. I am a strong team player who thrives in collaborative environments, having gained valuable skills through my roles in my school’s student council during my A-levels. There, I focused on improving the student experience and learned to communicate effectively with both staff and students. This experience sparked my interest in human resource.

At Sheffield Hallam University, I engaged in group projects that enhanced my curiosity about my peers' perspectives. While brainstorming can sometimes be overwhelming, I successfully helped align our ideas with our objectives, reinforcing my belief in the importance of teamwork.

I enjoy tackling complex issues and asking critical questions to provoke solutions. This engagement has shaped my academic and personal life, and I look forward to bringing this mindset to the role of student trustee.

My summer job as a waitress taught me the importance of punctuality and reliability in a busy environment, emphasising our reliance on each other. As a former student of an international school, I’ve built relationships with diverse peers, learning that every perspective is valuable. My experiences have prepared me to contribute meaningfully to the student union, ensuring all perspectives are heard and equally respected.

What do you think the Students' Union should focus on in the coming year?

I believe the student union should continue to focus on promoting the resources available that make students more employable. This includes not only promoting platforms that enhance students’ skills but also highlighting relevant courses within those platforms to ensure that students are aware of what they offer. I think the student union should explore diverse ways to promote this initiative, as it could encourage students to engage with these platforms, thereby improving their skill sets and employability.

There are many platforms that Hallam provides, such as Forage and LinkedIn Learning, which offer courses that take only a few hours to complete and reward participants with certifications. This would especially help students build a CV that showcases a diverse skill set, while also enhancing their university experience by taking full advantage of the resources available to them.

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

Hi, I’m Seth, a second-year psychology student. I’m running to be a Student Trustee as I am passionate about the community we have at Hallam and want to do my part in supporting it!

I believe I am well equipped for this role due to skills gained from my previous voluntary experiences, and my enthusiasm for supporting students’ Hallam experience.

• Being a Trustee requires strong collaborative and clear communication skills and I have formed these through my roles in voluntary teams for a young people's theatre, OCD support group and local Youth Council. As part of my roles I have facilitated large meetings, innovated new projects, and worked in collaboration with local communities.
• Trustees ensure the SU is meeting its objectives to represent Hallam students. To do this they must be prepared to constructively question its policies. My psychology degree has equipped me with the critical analysis skills to do this.
• One important aspect of overseeing the SU is making sure all students are treated equally with respect and that services are welcoming and accessible. One of the best things about being a Hallam student is how diverse our community is, and I am deeply committed to ensuring everyone thrives. My voluntary roles mean I have worked with people from a wide range of backgrounds which has taught me how to prioritise EDI and centre it in all my work.

I’d really like to put these skills to use as one of your Student Trustees.

Vote for me so I can make sure the SU works for you!

What do you think the Students' Union should focus on in the coming year?

Over my first year at Hallam, I have realised how wide ranging the excellent services are that our student’s union provides. From the cost-of-living shop to the advisory service, our SU supports every aspect of student life.

This year, I think the SU should build on these successes through several initiatives:

1. As a Student Trustee, I would like to see increased promotion of the HUBS as a space for student events, community outreach, and a place for students to relax.
2. Studying is becoming increasingly expensive, and the cost-of-living crisis is hitting many students hard. I believe the SU should increase awareness of the financial aid available, and ensure the SU’s finances are transparent.
3. I think the SU has a great wellbeing program for when students are struggling, and I would like to see this expand to more preventative strategies e.g. peer befriending, de-stressing events, so everyone can achieve their potential.
4. As a Student Trustee, I would like to see a wider range of employability roles, activities, and support for students' success.
5. Hallam has a great community, and I think the SU should focus on unifying schemes so that home students, international students, mature students, commuting students, and postgraduates all feel connected. Additionally, I’d like to see the SU build more links with the wider Sheffield community.

I would really appreciate the opportunity to be a Student Trustee and represent you so I hope I can win your vote!

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

I have always been an active member of my community, looking to give back and pave the way for those who follow on from myself. I have spent time working with charitable organisations, like CAFOD, in my youth and am well-versed with running societies and managing groups of people. I am natural leader, who looks to inspire and listen to foster growth.

What do you think the Students' Union should focus on in the coming year?

I think we should look at creating greater communal space for students to meet and gather in a social setting and provide more incentives and/or discounts for them to make use of the facilities on hand.