Carrot Magazine endorses Emine and Ashton in the Student Union elections. This is because they have demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering inclusivity, advocating for student welfare, and implementing innovative initiatives that resonate with the diverse student body.
We sent over a range of questions and have the responses below. Take some time to look through them and see why we’ve chosen to endorse these incredible candidates!
Emine:
What motivated you to run for this position in the university elections?
My inspiration stemmed from my prior position as an Assembly member, where I witnessed the tangible potential for change and observed how it enhanced the overall student experience, making it more enjoyable.
What unique qualities or experiences do you possess that make you a suitable candidate for this position?
Throughout my three years at City University, I actively engaged in various job roles, volunteering positions, and senior meetings. This immersive involvement enabled me to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of how City University functions. I believe this well-rounded knowledge is crucial for effective leadership, as it equips me with the insight needed to initiate change in a thoughtful and informed manner.
What specific changes or improvements do you hope to bring to the university if elected?
My primary objective is to completely eliminate the graduation costs. Upon realising that I had to pay for my gown to participate in the ceremony and receive my certificate, I was profoundly surprised and disheartened. Having already invested significantly in my studies, I couldn’t understand why I had to incur additional costs merely to collect my certificate. I’m certain many students share this sentiment. But not only that, we have to pay for our guests as well!
How do you plan to engage with the student body and address their concerns if you win?
So far, I have honed my capacity to address students’ concerns by directly engaging in conversations with them. I firmly believe this approach is the most effective method. I am sceptical of surveys or other types of questionnaires as they may not capture the nuances and depth of student feedback as effectively as personal interaction does.
Can you provide examples of leadership roles or experiences that have prepared you for this position?
Since my first year, I have closely collaborated with the Student Union, an experience that has thoroughly prepared me to be an ideal candidate. I anticipate a seamless transition into the role, as I am already well-versed in their operational methods and familiar with the responsibilities entailed.
Ashton:
What motivated you to run for this position in the university elections?
My motivation comes from the opportunity to make a meaningful difference on campus while gaining a diverse set of skills such as advocacy, leadership, communication etc. This is a unique experience that I aim to capitalise on to make my university life more enriching.
What unique qualities or experiences do you possess that make you a suitable candidate for this position?
I think my most unique qualities is authenticity & transparency given I’ve been able to connect with a range of people by placing myself in their positions & basing my manifesto a lot on the feedback I’ve gained from other people. Naturally a trust is built between yourself & students as a result.
What specific changes or improvements do you hope to bring to the university if elected?
Should I be elected as a student union officer, I intend to specifically improve mental well-being services given City has very good services however developing free training programs where students can gain greater mental health literacy as well as having awareness raising events (e.g. during Mental Health Week having stalls & selling food to donate to mental health charities). Also forming partnerships with local businesses (e.g. in Islington) to collaborate to create more internship/placement year opportunities while also providing additional support in regards to online assessments.
Voting for elections opened online on Monday 26th February and will close on Thursday 29th February at 3.00pm. You can log on anytime and vote at www.citystudents.co.uk/elections
The election results will be counted and announced in City Bar, Northampton Square on Thursday 29th February 2024 at 5.30pm.