This month has been a blend of collaboration, representation, and strategic work to ensure student voices are at the heart of university decision-making. From major committee meetings to careers events and student rep training, October has been all about improving employability, communication, and student experience.
“Every meeting, event, and initiative this month has been about making sure that student priorities turn into real action.”
Leadership and Representation
This month, I chaired my first Trustee Board meeting - an important moment as we reviewed progress and discussed long-term strategies for the Union. I am also part of key University committees, including the University Council, UESEC, and the Elections Committee, where I continue to ensure decisions reflect student needs and values.
Key Achievements and Work
Employability and Placements
- A major focus this month was on employability and placements. I met with the Deputy Vice Chancellor to discuss student concerns around placement opportunities, especially for major postgraduate courses, and shared ideas on improving processes and communication.
- I collaborated closely with the Student Professional Development (SPD) team on the Careers Fest Week, a week-long initiative filled with valuable sessions including CV checks, LinkedIn profile building, “Get Recruitment Ready,” and “Develop Skills & Side Hustles.” The highlight of the week was the Meet the Employers event, where students directly engaged with employers and explored real opportunities.
- I also raised employability discussions in the University Council and Vice-Chancellor’s meeting, suggesting new ways to use the Job Shop to benefit students.
Student Representation and Support
- This month, we completed Senior Rep recruitment, with two Senior Reps per college - and now, an additional one per college to balance the growing workload.
- I took part in Student Rep Training, where I joined our Advoice team in equipping course reps and senior reps with the tools to effectively gather and communicate student feedback.
- I attended the Student Assembly, where we welcomed the newly elected Part-Time Officers and Assembly Members.
- I am working closely with the University to improve communication between departments, especially around processes like Extenuating Circumstances, which many students are still unaware of.
- At the UESEC meeting, I emphasised the importance of ensuring upcoming structural changes are student-friendly, consistent across all colleges, and clearly communicated.
University and Union Collaboration
- I met with the Admissions Marketing team to discuss how we can promote the Union of Brunel Students more effectively. Since Admissions is often the first contact point for students, it’s essential that new students understand what the Union does and how it supports them.
- During the University Council meeting, we discussed employability and campus food services. I shared that student feedback should guide the upcoming food contract planning.
- In our Vice-Chancellor meeting, we raised key issues around employability, food contracts, hardship funds, and Wi-Fi connectivity on campus. I also suggested improving Welcome Week by preventing long queues for student ID collection, an area that needs attention.
- I served as part of the Elections Committee for the Autumn Elections, ensuring the process was fair, transparent, and positive for all participants.
Engagement and Community
- I had the opportunity to meet the Dean of Brunel Business School (BBS) to discuss how we can make academic societies more engaging and address college-specific concerns.
- I participated in the International School introductory session, where I spoke with students about how the Union supports Brunel students throughout their journey.
- I also completed PREVENT training, focused on understanding and addressing harassment and sexual misconduct ensuring I am well-prepared to support students in these areas.
Cultural and Social Events
- October was also full of vibrant cultural events. I joined and volunteered at the Diwali celebrations led by the Indian Society and Hindu Society, and supported the Diwali Bollywood Night, ensuring students had an enjoyable and memorable experience on campus.
Looking Ahead
As we move into November, my focus will be on:
- Continuing collaboration with the University on employability and placements to ensure better opportunities for postgraduate students.
- Supporting and empowering student reps to effectively voice concerns and bring positive change.
- Strengthening communication between departments and students to make university processes clearer and more accessible.
- Preparing for upcoming academic and cultural events that bring our diverse community together.
Supporting Students
Alongside these projects, I continue to help students directly with academic, placement, and communication concerns by working with both the Union Advice Team and University staff. I have also supported students in resolving their Academic Appeals, Exceptional Circumstances (ECs), and Early Resolution (ERs) with the help of the Advice Team, ensuring fair outcomes and guidance throughout the process. I am always here to support you whether it’s through campaigns, guidance, or simply listening to your ideas.
Stay Connected
Your feedback drives everything I do. If you have a concern, idea, or suggestion, please get in touch:
“Thank you for continuing to trust me to represent your interests. I look forward to sharing next month’s updates with more progress on employability, student life, and communication.”
Abhishek Ghawate
Education President, Brunel University