School of Slavonic and Eastern European Studies Society (SSEES): Welfare Officer

Hi all!

I'm Fran, a third-year BA Polish and Spanish student and I would love to be your welfare officer for the next academic year!

University can be challenging and sometimes lonely, but no one should have to struggle alone! I, myself, have experienced the highs and lows of university life, and I want to be there for you, lifting you up when you feel low and celebrating when you succeed!

I have previously worked as a Transition Mentor and a SSEES Student Representive so it's safe to say I know my way around the labyrinthine SSEES building and the way our department works. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience at SSEES to help others settle in and join our welcoming community. 

I'm currently on my year abroad in Kraków, Poland, having just finished a semester in Buenos Aires, Argentina, so I'd be happy to share my experience with applying for the year abroad and the process of moving abroad itself. I also know the feeling of being far from home and would be happy to lend an ear to those dealing with a touch of homesickness!

I really enjoy being a SSEES student - we truly are the best department. I'd love to help others also make the most of our amazing department and brilliant SSEES society!

Thank you for reading!

P.S: My profile pic is me posing with the founder of our department, Tomáš G. Masaryk, on a year-abroad trip to Prague! Does that earn me extra brownie points?! ;)

I’m applying for the role of Welfare Officer because I’m passionate about supporting the wellbeing of our student community. I want to help promote a safe, inclusive environment and make sure students know where to turn for support when they need it.

As a student at SSEES who has benefited from the support of student advisors and the department, I want to make sure other students get the support that they need too. 
As a welfare and engagement officer I would aim for the following:

1. Making sure students at SSEES feel comfortable and confident during their time here, as well as opening up the floor for active discussion on how the society can help improve student culture at SSEES and create a safe space for our students.

2. Setting up more opportunities and well-being activities for SSEES members and students, offering them the opportunity to wind-down from their busy schedules and to connect with each other. 

   I believe that my experiences as a transition mentor for SSEES freshers, as well as externally volunteering through Debate Mate to mentor school students, have equipped me with the patience and confidence that would be needed to carry out this position. Therefore, if you choose for me to be your welfare and engagement officer, I will aim to cooperate with you and the committee, to further improve opportunities for students and strengthen our community.