Candidates for Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences Officer

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

I believe I'm an ideal candidate for Education Officer for HWLS because of my passion for creating a supportive and engaging learning environment for students here at Hallam. I am committed to and have advocated for better support, resources, opportunities and success through my excellent communication skills making sure that students' views are heard and that your concerns are effectively addressed. To establish a constructive and proactive approach to education at university, I am dedicated to encouraging a cooperative partnership between students and staff. Throughout the course of their university journey, I want each student to feel empowered and supported.

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

I had the amazing opportunity to carry out my work as Lead Representative over the 3 years of my Child Nursing course. Throughout this time, I have developed my advocacy and communication skills through supporting students' wellbeing, issues during placement and academic concerns. My leadership and collaborative skills have evolved as I've learnt to prioritise issues that immediately affect students while making decisions that conform with larger objectives, whilst effectively communicating with my peers. In my role, I have been able to establish relationships with both staff and students by encouraging honest conversation around advocating for the student voice.

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

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Integrated healthcare placement support
• Student employability

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

I believe that community, belonging and academic societies should be prioritised within the Officer role to foster inclusivity and wellbeing, and enhance engagement and participation. Within the College, this is a wide issue as students often feedback feelings of exclusion and loneliness, with a lack of academic societies within Health and Social Care. Furthermore, I also believe that prioritising cost of living would broadly benefit students' university experience. I would like to work closely with the appropriate teams to implement strategies that would improve the cost of living for university students, such as public transport fares for placement travel.

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!