Xiaohongshu
Election post
As a part-time MSc student who began studying at 28 and a secondary carer for my younger brother with special needs, I understand the pressures mature, part-time and carers students face. Balancing a major financial commitment with earning enough to survive in London, finding flexible work, prioritising study, and feeling isolated as the only part-time student on my course has been challenging. Through teaching, community research and support roles, I have developed strong communication, advocacy and community-building skills which I would bring to this role.
If elected, I want to build a stronger sense of community for mature, part-time and carers students at UCL through accessible social, networking and wellbeing events. I want students balancing work, caring responsibilities or financial pressures to feel visible, supported and included within university life. I would work with the Welfare & Community Officer to improve awareness of support services, represent students’ concerns to UCL, and advocate for more flexible and inclusive approaches that reflect the realities of students with responsibilities beyond university.
Students should vote for me because I combine lived experience with a strong background in advocacy, education and community support. As a part-time MSc student, secondary carer, teacher and community researcher, I understand the pressures of balancing study with work, finances and caring responsibilities. I will work to ensure mature, part-time and carers students feel heard, represented and included through practical support, stronger community networks and inclusive campaigning within UCL and the Students’ Union.
In 200 years, I hope UCL will be more inclusive, affordable and genuinely shaped around students’ lives. I would want students to have greater access to flexible university jobs, more advance notice of timetables to balance work and caring responsibilities, and stronger financial support. I hope UCL will continue supporting students after graduation through careers, wellbeing and community networks. I also imagine a university where accessibility, flexible learning and social justice are fully embedded within every aspect of student life.