Cancer Charities Alliance Society: Events Officer

As a biosciences student, I have always been interested in the cancer research field, and witnessing the rapid development in cancer research over recent years has inspired me to make a contribution. By joining the UCL Cancer Charity Alliance Committee as Events Officer, I hope to foster an welcoming environment within the society by organising different events that help members deepen their understanding of the field and connect with like-minded individuals.

My experience as a committee member in various societies such as the Biochemistry Society and Knitting Society along with my role as a transition mentor, has equipped me with strong communication and organisational skills, also strengthening my event coordination and collaboration skills. I am particularly driven by the opportunity this role provides to utilise my skills while contributing to the society.

I would suggest increasing collaborations with other bioscience-related societies to host academic talks, allowing members to gain insights into cancer research and other aspects of biosciences. Also, partnering with other societies for social events could provide opportunities for members to network with peers across UCL. Events such as game nights, workshops and coffee or crochet sessions could offer a relaxing atmosphere for members to unwind and relieve stress from their studies, making their university experience less overwhelming and more enjoyable. Additionally, I would propose organising more volunteering and fundraising events to give back to the community

As a Biomedical Sciences student, I am passionate about understanding human illnesses and researching a cure for them. I am also driven to educate and raise awareness about these illnesses - such as cancer - to the general population. Being part of this society and as an Events Officer will allow me to help bring forward the much-needed awareness towards cancer at UCL, especially for the students who are not studying Medical Sciences.

Throughout high school, I initiated projects to raise awareness about issues I was passionate about. For example, I co-founded a student-led organisation which raised awareness about global issues and raised funds to alleviate problems such as the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. At 14, my classmate and I also voluntarily taught English to children in Myanmar. We planned and organised lessons independently and set up a donation drive before leaving. I am confident my past experiences in organising volunteer events make me suitable for the role of Events officer.

Regarding Society events, I would love to organise a visit to a children's cancer hospital where we could interact and play with the kids. I think as a way to generate awareness we should also interview students and test their general knowledge on cancer - maybe a few TikToks to properly target the student audience. In terms of social events to build the Society's sense of community I have a few ideas such as movie nights (on films about cancer)!