Candidates for International Students' Officer

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

As an international student, I understand the challenges of adapting to a new country, from cultural adjustments to academic support and visa concerns. I am passionate about making Hallam a more welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for all international students. If elected, I will advocate for better resources, stronger support networks, and more opportunities to celebrate our diverse cultures. I want to ensure every international student feels valued, heard, and empowered. Together, we can enhance the student experience and make Hallam a true home away from home. Vote for me as your International Students' Officer!

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

As an international student and University Student Ambassador, I have firsthand experience navigating the challenges of studying abroad. My ambassador role has strengthened my communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, allowing me to support and represent students effectively. I have engaged with diverse communities, helping new students settle in and access essential resources. My ability to advocate, organize events, and foster inclusivity makes me a strong candidate. I am committed to ensuring international students feel supported, valued, and empowered. With passion and experience, I am ready to make a meaningful impact as your International Students' Officer.

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

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Student employability
• Community, belonging, and academic societies

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

Sustainability and university communication

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

As an international student, I know firsthand how exciting and overwhelming it can be to adjust to a new country and culture. I want to be International Students' Officer to help make that transition smoother for others, ensuring every international student at Hallam feels supported, valued, and part of our vibrant community. My vision is to create spaces where students from all backgrounds can connect, share experiences, and feel truly at home. Together, I believe we can build a campus where diversity is celebrated, and every voice is heard.

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

I have developed strong communication and leadership skills through my involvement in student societies and organizing events, where I've worked closely with people from diverse backgrounds. I'm passionate about creating spaces where everyone feels heard and valued. I excel at listening, collaborating, and finding creative solutions to challenges. These experiences have taught me how to advocate for others and build connections, which I believe are key skills for representing international students at Hallam. I'm excited to bring these skills to the role and make a positive impact on our student community.

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

• Student employability
• Cost of living
• Mental health and wellbeing support

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

1. Health and Well-being Support

International students may face health challenges, including exposure to novel diseases, changes in dietary and exercise habits, and variations in climate and weather patterns. Providing comprehensive health services, including mental health support, can help students adapt to these changes and maintain their well-being.

2. Cultural Integration and Social Engagement

International students often experience culture shock and feelings of homesickness. Implementing programs that promote cultural exchange and social engagement can help students integrate into the university community, make friends, and feel more at home.

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

I want to be elected as the next International Students' Officer at Sheffield Hallam University in the upcoming elections in March, 2025 to advocate for the various challenges faced by international students.

As one of the class representatives for MSc Public Health (January 2024 cohort), I am a strong advocate of equality and have demonstrated that by fostering inclusivity in my class regardless of age, gender, status, race or ethnicity. If I become the next International Students' Officer, I would replicate a higher level of inclusivity and equality as part of my mantra.

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

As a young and vibrant person, I possess several key skills and that would make me an effective and outstanding International Students' Officer at Sheffield Hallam University. I possess team management skills that enables me to collaborate effectively and lead initiatives within diverse population or groups. I excel in interpersonal, listening, and communication skills, allowing me to connect with students and understand their plights. In addition, my experience as a class representative has equipped me with problem-solving abilities and a strong sense of advocacy. Lastly, I am very organized and proactive, ensuring that I address issues affecting international students promptly and effectively.

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

• Anti-racism at HSU
• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Cost of living

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

Student employability

Timetabling

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

I want to be elected as an SHU Student Officer to represent and amplify the voices of students, ensuring their concerns and ideas shape university policies. I'm very passionate about helping to make the student experience more inclusive, engaging, and supportive. Through this, I would be able to enhance academic support, improve the facilities on campus, and organize events for meaningful community building. My leadership skills, dedication, and commitment to student well-being make me the ideal candidate. I believe every student deserves a fulfilling university journey, and I am determined to be their advocate, making positive changes that truly matter.

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

Competencies and Experiences:

1. Former Class Representative during undergraduate studies at GCU
2. Served as Prefect at South Point High School.
3. Received CREAM AWARDS from Garden City University for Academic Excellence.
4. Distinguished Scholarship Recipient (Sponsored by the British Council, England)
5. Functioned as the Lead Volunteer for the Robin Hood Army.
6. Participated in campaigns organised by Bhumi.
7. Awarded PRIDE by my alma mater for entrepreneurial abilities.
8. Attained a CGPA of 9.2 in my Bachelor's program (Batch Topper).

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

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Anti-racism at HSU
• Student employability

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

1. Foundation Year: International students from various countries often struggle to adapt to research-based coursework in the UK. I will exhaust all efforts to ensure the implementation of a Foundation year for all master's programs in the Business, Technology, and Engineering Department, enabling every student to use resources effectively and approach assignments proactively and without stress.

2. Scholarship Opportunities: Certain scholarships, such as the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship, are exclusively available to specific nationalities, namely Indian, Pakistani, or Bangladeshi. I will initiate a campaign against this and endeavour to ensure that all students from diverse nationalities may access the scholarship to benefit from reduced tuition fees.

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

Having lived and studied in three different countries, I understand the challenges of adapting to a new culture and the importance of having the right support. I’m passionate about ensuring every international student feels heard, valued and proud to be part of Hallam. I love getting involved in campus life and want to create a welcoming community where we may not always ‘feel at home’ but at least ‘feel at peace’ or at the very least, not be lost between lecture buildings five minutes before class! Let’s take international student support to ‘ANNother’ level together!

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

Being an international student, I know what it's like to have endless questions. I've been to Hallam Help countless times, used the library chat (fun fact: you can't request a temperature change there), tackled group projects, and squeezed every possible event into Welcome Week including the Welcome Dinner. I've joined university trips to York and the Peak District, and as a Course Rep, I bring student concerns to the table. I've been where you are, and I'm here to make sure international students feel supported, heard, and ready to make the most of their time at Hallam.

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

• University communications
• Software provision
• Academic misconduct and University regulations

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

Social Campus Facilities

Wish Hallam had fun, student-friendly spaces beyond just lecture halls. Imagine a themed International Student Lounge with cultural vibes or a Digital Student Wall student shoutouts, events, and interesting cultural facts. With more relaxation zones and interactive hubs, students could proudly socialize and truly enjoy university life.

Career Support for International Students

Finding a job as an international student isn't easy as visa restrictions, employer hesitations and unclear work rights make it challenging. I want to push for dedicated and clearer career support tailored for international students to help us gain experience and build our future careers.

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 International Students' Officer?

As an international student myself, I truly understand the challenges we face both on campus and in everyday life in the UK. Having walked in your shoes, I am committed to ensuring international students at SHU are heard, valued, and equipped with the support they need. I aim to create an inclusive, vibrant campus environment where everyone feels welcome, international and local students alike. I will ensure all important information is accessible and easy to navigate for international students, making sure you're always informed and supported. Vote for me to make these changes a reality!

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

As a Korean who grew up in Malaysia and now studies in the UK, I can connect with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. My experiences of leading a multicultural group, running for society president, and organizing several events - have equipped me with strong leadership and responsibility skills. I am passionate about listening to opinions and committed to making meaningful changes, never giving up until the best outcome is achieved. I will relentlessly work to ensure that your voices are heard, and I'm dedicated to driving positive change for the international student community at SHU.

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

• University communications
• Community, belonging, and academic societies
• Sustainability

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

Having no one to rely on

Being away from family and realizing there's no one to deeply rely on impacts both international and local students. Whether it's managing daily life, accessing healthy meals, or feeling safe, it takes a toll.

Simplifying the SHU websites

It's great that SHU provides many websites with valuable information to support students. However, the sheer volume of resources can make it difficult to navigate and find the right one when needed. Simplifying access and improving organization will help students find the support they need more easily.

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

Hi team, I wanna be your International Student Officer because I have a great enthusiasm to work with the problems related to the international students. As I'm a international student, I know the struggles, the homesickness, and the paperwork headache's, I promise to your voice, fighting for better support services, more social events that celebrate our cultures, and many more. My goal is to make sure every international student feels welcome, supported, and can enjoy their time here and we make Hallam a global campus.

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

I have 1 year of experience as a Junior Data Scientist. In these role I gained confidence and improved my communication skills. As a Data Scientist, I have worked with a team of different mindsets. In a short span, I became a team leader for 8 people, where I improved my leadership and problem-solving skills. I'm a fast learner and self motivated person. With the above skills, I managed to complete the tasks in time. My experience in managing teams, working under pressure, and staying focused on goals makes me confidant to excel as an International Student Officer and contribute effectively to the role.

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

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Cost of living
• Student employability

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

Mental Health and Well-being Support & Career development and Networking Opportunities.

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

My first degree is laws and I have had more than six years working in my home country. Currently a Master's student in Human Resources and Organizational Development at SHU, I am ready to take on new challenges. The achievement and experience I have had really encourage me to continue the journey to provide insights and knowledge for everyone in need, especially the underpresented groups. I am positive that International Students' Officer role shall eventually enhance my long-term career as a Human Resources executive, allowing me to apply and share what I learnt so far to real-life situations and expand my cross-cultural as well as my professional expertise in the UK.

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

Previous jobs has required me to maintain effective written and verbal communication in fast-paced and deliverables-oriented environment, allowing me to engage and work effectively with people from various cultures. With professional knowledge from MSc course and computing proficiency, I am committed to learn, adapt and contribute to dynamic and inclusive HSU. My experience has also honed my speaking and writing abilities, and I am comfortable working independently or as part of teams. Additionally, my leadership skill - developed throughout my work and study - brings with me a strong sense of accountability, diligent work ethic, confidence and attention to detail

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

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Student employability
• Academic misconduct and University regulations

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

During university, I have been working as an English tutor and a local voluntary tourguide for almost three years. My recent job includes being an Office Admin cum Project Admin Officer at a non-profit organization called Women's Initiative for Startups and Entrepreneurship, I have had three years supporting across multiple women-oriented projects in collaboration with multiple global organizations to empower female entrepreneurs and women-owned enterprises with rounded business support. From my own experience, I notice and would like to emphasize the importance and share about two other topics: EDI (Equality - Diversity - Inclusion) and Accommodations to other SHU students.