Candidates for International Students' Officer

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

Being elected as an International Student Officer allows me to foster cultural understanding, create a supportive community, and address unique challenges faced by international students, contributing to a more inclusive and enriching academic environment for everyone.

What would your priorities be as an Officer?

My priorities as an International Student Officer will include advocating for cultural diversity, providing resources for academic and social integration, guiding students to the right people regarding their visa and immigration concerns, and organizing events that celebrate and embrace the unique backgrounds of international students. Prioritizing effective communication and support channels can further enhance the overall experience for international students.

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

The skills that I have to become a successful International Student Officer, are strong interpersonal and communication skills, cultural sensitivity, organizational abilities, attention to detail, and knowledge of immigration regulations. Additionally, adaptability, and a genuine interest in supporting students from diverse backgrounds.

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

Typically, an international student officer is a student who is elected to represent and champion the interests of international students at a university or other educational establishment. They act as an intermediary between the university and the community of international students, responding to issues, encouraging diversity, and planning programmes that improve the overall experience of these students. This position frequently entails promoting cross-cultural interaction, offering assistance, and trying to make a friendly environment for students from different origins.

What would your priorities be as an Officer?

• Improving Cultural Integration: Support initiatives that encourage cross-cultural communication in order to assist foreign students in assimilating into the community and developing a feeling of identity.
• Promoting Support Services: To address the particular difficulties encountered by international students, work to enhance support services, such as academic support, mental health resources, and housing.
• Communication and Transparency: Create open channels of communication between the school and the community of overseas students to make sure that issues are understood and resolved quickly.
• Support for Visa and Immigration: To provide a more seamless experience for international students, and push for shortened procedures.

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

The skills that I have to become a successful International Student Officer, are strong interpersonal and communication skills, cultural sensitivity, organizational abilities, attention to detail, and knowledge of immigration regulations. Additionally, adaptability, and a genuine interest in supporting students from diverse backgrounds.

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

As I am an International student. Standing as a candidate for International student officer role and wants to create a heart warming environment for all the international students over the globe we meet. I am committed to my principles to imply inclusivity and support for all international students. We understand the challenges, difficulties and opportunites we all have faced while moving to a new country. With respect for all the community their cultural exchange for their equality, I will raise the voice on behalf of every international students for their needs. Also, we will together work on building new connections.

What would your priorities be as an Officer?

To start, I will work to improve orientation programmes to would be easier to adapt by all international students. As an International student officer, my priorities would be to support structures and promoting cultures diversity. Moreover, I will work to celebrate through events for cultural exchange and celebrate diversity to encourage cross-cultural understanding. I’ll work on accessible resources, focusing on mental health and academic support to all the international students. Lastly, to address queries for Visa and immigration challenges which every other International students face to smoothen the process and providing assistance wherever needed.

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

As an effective officer, I will be understanding different cultures and helping people feel included, so my ears would be open every time needed for listening their problem and giving solution. I will be organising events that will bring people together and celebrate our differences. I’ve learned to organise and get things done. The challenges which every International students face, I am aware and will help them to the best. I'll work hard to make sure everyone feels supported and heard. Being kind and caring, I'll do my best to make our community a better place for everyone.

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

I'm driven to serve as International Students' Officer, amplifying the voices of Hallam's international students and ensuring their needs are met. Through strong advocacy, I'll stand for their rights and collaborate with the university and fellow students to enact meaningful change. My goal is to improve the Hallam experience for international students by leading impactful campaigns and fostering a supportive, diverse community. As a Trustee of the Students' Union, I'll contribute to strategic planning, enhancing my leadership skills while striving for a more inclusive environment. Let's work together to create a brighter future for all international students at Hallam.

What would your priorities be as an Officer?

As International Students' Officer, my priorities would be: advocating for enhanced support services tailored to the unique needs of international students, including addressing issues like housing and advocating for a constant 20-hour working time; tackling challenges related to visa regulations, housing, and healthcare to facilitate a seamless transition; and providing platforms for international students to voice concerns, actively engaging with stakeholders to implement necessary changes for their welfare and success.

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

Drawing on my advocacy and leadership background in diverse communities, I possess vital communication skills for effectively representing international students. As a post-graduate taught student representative, I've honed my ability to drive impactful campaigns through collaboration with stakeholders. My deep understanding of the challenges faced by international students, coupled with a passion for inclusivity, drives my advocacy for their rights and needs. With a proactive and empathetic approach, I am committed to cultivating a supportive environment that enriches the experiences of international students at Hallam.

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

• Representation: Individuals may feel a strong sense of responsibility to represent the interests and concerns of international students within their educational institution. They may believe that having a dedicated representative can ensure that the unique needs of international students are effectively communicated and addressed.
• Advocacy: Running for this position can be a way to advocate for policies and initiatives that improve the overall experience of international students. This may include addressing visa issues, cultural integration, language support, and other challenges that international students commonly face.

What would your priorities be as an Officer?

• Advocacy for International Students' Needs: A key priority would be to advocate for the specific needs and concerns of international students, ensuring that their voices are heard in discussions and decisions related to academic policies, campus life, and support services.
• Cultural Integration and Support: Facilitating cultural integration programs and providing support services to help international students adjust to the new academic and social environment. This might include language support, cultural exchange events, and mentorship programs.

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

• Cross-Cultural Communication: Demonstrated proficiency in communicating effectively across diverse cultural backgrounds, fostering understanding and collaboration among a multicultural community.
• Empathy and Cultural Sensitivity: An understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultural backgrounds of international students, coupled with empathy for the unique experiences and struggles they may face.
• Organizational and Project Management: Experience in organizing events, workshops, or projects that promote cultural exchange, community building, and the overall well-being of international students.
• Problem-Solving: The ability to identify challenges faced by international students and propose effective and practical solutions, demonstrating a proactive and problem-solving mindset.

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

I am driven to be elected as International Students' Officer to prioritise and enhance the experience of international students at Hallam. Recognising the university's diverse student body, I aim to foster collaboration among international students by addressing their unique challenges. By advocating for improved learning environments, engagement with studies, tailored mental health support, and advocating for more placement opportunities, I seek to ensure every international student feels valued and supported throughout their academic journey. Together, we can cultivate a vibrant and inclusive community, enriching the university experience while providing essential work experience opportunities for international students.

What would your priorities be as an Officer?

As International Student Officer, my major priorities are highlighted below:

• Increasing international students' engagement with the Hallam Student Union by removing identified bottlenecks.
• Enhancing learning environments and support services tailored towards increasing the academic performance of international students and contributing towards the reduction of the degree awarding gap.
• Advocating for more placement opportunities and career mentorship programs.
• Securing additional funding opportunities for international students within the university and some key stakeholders in the region to help cushion the effect of the rising cost of living.
• Collaborating with the university to facilitate prompt payment of fees by international students and timely enrolment to reduce administrative pressure on the international experience team.

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

As an active member of the Hallam community, I've consistently fostered inclusivity and collaboration among my cohort as a course representative for MSc. IT Management. Serving as a dedicated Student Ambassador, I've effectively showcased the university's values and supported prospective students during key events, including Clearing Operations and Open Days. Additionally, my leadership role as Secretary of the Nigerian Society has driven significant improvements in Nigerian student's experience here at Hallam. Working as a Student Engagement Assistant with Hallam Student Union has refined my public speaking abilities and enhanced my capacity for effective collaboration with diverse student groups.

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

I am deeply committed to enhancing the experiences of international students at Sheffield Hallam University. With firsthand knowledge of their challenges, from integration to cultural adjustments, I am driven to create a more supportive and inclusive environment. As an International Students' Officer, I aim to advocate for their needs, bridge academic gaps, and foster a sense of belonging, ensuring every international student feels valued and empowered throughout their journey at our university.

What would your priorities be as an Officer?

As an International Students' Officer, my priorities would be to cultivate a positive and inclusive environment for all international students. I will focus on reducing academic challenges by providing tailored support services and resources. Additionally, I aim to enhance the overall international student life experience by organizing cultural events, fostering community engagement, and advocating for their needs within the university. My goal is to ensure that every international student feels welcomed, supported, and empowered to thrive during their time at Sheffield Hallam University.

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

With a strong foundation in empathy and active listening, coupled with my collaborative approach, I bring valuable skills to the role of Officer. My experience in student advocacy and community engagement has honed my ability to understand diverse perspectives and work effectively with others. Through collaborative initiatives, I have demonstrated my capacity to drive positive change and address student needs. As a dedicated and empathetic individual, I am committed to leveraging these skills to represent and support the international student community effectively.

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

My name is Shafaq Sajid and I am running for the role of International Student Officer. Having experienced the challenges of being an international student firsthand, I am committed to create a supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered. With collective efforts, I aim to make our university the top choice for international students by ensuring they receive the support and opportunities they deserve. Together, we can create a vibrant and inclusive community.

What would your priorities be as an Officer?

If elected, I will:

• Facilitate academic success by providing access to information, tools/apps regarding assignment making, research, and presentation skills
• Career development to expand opportunities like paid internships, placements, and networking events
• Work to improve housing support with affordable accommodation options and address local guarantor issues
• Advocate for more scholarship programs, particularly for young women
• Mental health workshops and counseling to ensure that no student feels alone
• Facilitate new students with information on opening bank accounts, NI, English language support, grocery discounts, etc.
• Cultural integration through more societies, and events and increasing the engagement of students.

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

I have a unique blend of expertise and skills in advocating for various causes and a passion to serve. I have been working with the government and NGOs in Pakistan. I have worked on numerous campaigns aimed at improving healthcare and education access for marginalized communities. I have experience of working in media as a content manager which gives me strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills. I can advocate for the challenges faced by the students and am determined to be their voice. My vision is to create a bright future where every student at Hallam thrives. Let’s make a difference, together.

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

As an International Students' Officer candidate, I aim to foster a vibrant and inclusive community that celebrates diversity and supports the unique needs of international students. With a deep understanding of the challenges they face, I strive to enhance cultural exchange opportunities, advocate for accessible resources, and promote cross-cultural understanding. By amplifying the voices of international students, I aspire to create a welcoming environment that empowers individuals to thrive academically, socially, and personally. Through collaboration and proactive initiatives, I aim to bridge cultural gaps, cultivate unity, and ensure equitable representation for all international students within our diverse campus community.

What would your priorities be as an Officer?

As International Students' Officer, my priorities would include:

1. Addressing accommodation challenges for postgraduates with families by liaising with local housing services and universities to increase affordable, family-friendly housing options.
2. Facilitating a smooth transition for international students into their new environment through comprehensive orientation programs, peer support networks, and cultural exchange events.
3. Expanding opportunities for international work experience by establishing partnerships with global organizations and creating a platform for internships and job placements abroad, tailored to postgraduate students' fields of study, enhancing their global employability and cultural competence.

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

As a course representative in International Hospitality and Tourism Management and having held roles as treasurer and financial secretary during my undergraduate tenure, I've developed vital skills for an Officer role. My experience entails effective communication, leadership, financial management, and organizational abilities. I'm adept at representing diverse interests, managing budgets, and fostering collaboration. These experiences have honed my capacity to navigate complex situations, prioritize tasks, and facilitate constructive dialogue—all essential qualities for an effective Officer in any capacity.