Course of Study: Criminology
Why are you interested in becoming our next Student Trustee?
As a student who is heavily interested in politics, I feel that as a member of the student trustee I can be the person that can help promote a change which our fellow students would like to see at our “home away from home” as well as ensuring that we as the trustee is always taking actions in the best interests of our fellow students. I am passionate about representing the voices of my fellow students and advocating for their concerns and needs. Every student deserves to be heard and that is why I would like to be the bridge between the student body and the administration.
My experiences in various leadership roles have equipped me with the necessary skills to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse groups of people. I have developed a strong understanding of the various challenges that a student faces whether it be academically or regarding mental health issues. I am committed to addressing these challenges and working towards solutions that benefit all.
Furthermore, I see this role as an opportunity to create a sense of community among the students and within our university. I would like to use the platform to create initiatives that promote and encourage student engagement, inclusivity, and support for one another. By working closely with administration, I aim to prioritize student voices in decision making process.
Overall, I am driven by a desire to make a positive impact on our university community. I believe that as a student trustee I can contribute to meaningful change and help create an environment where every student feels empowered and supported.
What, in your opinion are the three most important qualities of a good Student Trustee, and could you provide details on how you possess these qualities.
Firstly, strong effective communication skills are vital for a student trustee to effectively convey the concerns and ideas of the students to the administration. As a volunteer of the SSYM Harrow leads group at my local temple has allowed me to possess this skill as part of the job is to listen effectively and provide feedback to session leads as well as member of the higher roles within the temple. This role also requires me to keep members of my group informed about decisions and developments that affect them.
Secondly, empathy is crucial for understanding the diverse experiences of students. I demonstrate empathy by being an approachable person and creating a safe space for students to express their thoughts and feelings.
Finally, leadership is essential for inspiring and mobilizing fellow students. Mahaprasad a new and upcoming non-profit organisation recently set up a stall at the SKLPC chovis gaam ujamani. This is an event where members of the Hindu community, the Kutchi community to be more precise come together and promote their businesses and showcase their skills whether it be through the art of dancing or singing. Having been asked to volunteer with the Mahaprasad stall I was given the role of making sure that everything that was needed was set up. In taking on this role I displayed my leadership skills as I was required to work with a team and ensure that all the sales processes as well as the set up and wrap up after the event ran smoothly. I was required to also delegate certain roles and situations where it ensured that all volunteers were engaging and collaborating with each other.
What skills and experiences can you bring to this role?
I believe that I can bring a various range of skills and experiences to the role. Skills that have previously been mentioned above such as effective communication and leadership skills. However, I also possess skills which at first glance may not seem to be of any use in the role of student trustee however it can be used anywhere as long as those skills are used correctly. Some of those skills are being marketing skills which can help improve student engagement whether it be physically or through means of social media. Another skill I possess is the ability to look at certain situations positively which others may struggle with doing. This is a useful skill as having a positive mindset as much a possible allows the moral of those around you to also remain high furthermore it allows for clearer thinking when situations may not be going the way in which we had hoped for.
In what ways do you believe you can actively contribute to the discussions and decision-making processes during board meetings?
The first step to being able to contribute to discussions and meetings is by thoroughly preparing for each meeting by reviewing the agenda of the meeting and any relevant materials in advance. This would allow me to engage meaningfully and provide informed input on topics during discussions and board meetings.
Listening to other trustee members during meetings and encouraging open dialogue allows for the better flow of new innovative ideas which can be used to progress forward and ensure all voices have a say in the decision-making process especially those who may feel less comfortable speaking up.
Sharing my own insights and thoughts based on feedback gathered from peers as well as ideas or feedback gathered during meetings. This would involve communicating their concerns and ideas effectively, ensuring that the board understands the broader student perspective. This also allows for innovation on ideas which either fellow board members, students or I have produced making the idea better or even finding a solution to problems which may have arisen.
Finally, being open to criticism and being willing to adapt my views based on added information or perspectives. This flexibility would help in making well rounded decisions that truly reflect the needs of the student body.
By being prepared, fostering collaboration, sharing insights, and remaining open minded, I can contribute positively to board meetings and the decision-making process.