Surgical Society: General & Vascular Surgery Chair

Hi, I’m Saanvi Nagaraj and I’m a 1st Year Medic. I am applying to run for General Surgery and Vascular Surgery Chair for Surgical Society. I believe I am suited for this role with how invested I am in the specialty. I had engaged in vascular surgery work experience previously and recently, I networked with vascular surgeons at the FYA conference in London. This was an enlightening experience that gave me the confidence that I could lead a team of other like-minded individuals. As Vascular Surgery FYR, I have also attended many events at which I was able to understand how to teach and hone surgical skills - a role I hope to fulfil.

From working on SurgSoc's flagship event, the International Undergraduate Surgical Conference, to delivering some of SurgSoc's consistently sold-out and exciting initiatives, including the Surgical Skills Course, Plastic Surgery series and inaugural General Surgery Spectrum, I’ve demonstrated commitment and capability - and aspire to bring the same creativity, dedication and energy to the new society through 3 major events:

1. Accessible Pre-Conference Workshops: Free/low-cost programme introducing students of all levels to vascular and laparoscopic surgery, creating a supportive space to build confidence and spark interest early.
2. An Elevated General Surgery Spectrum: Taking our flagship conference to new heights with inspiring talks from world-leading surgeons across every subspecialty, paired with hands-on experiences using custom-built models - from emergency simulations to advanced laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures, including tumour resections and biopsies.
3. A Meaningful Post-Conference Research & Shadowing Series: Connecting students with pioneering researchers and patients, along with an attendance-based shadowing scheme - rewarding the most engaged participants with the opportunity to shadow an expert in their field of choice (including observing robotic surgeries)!

If this sounds like an experience you’d love to be part of, Vote for me! Let's make General & Vascular Surgery fun, immersive and full of unforgettable experiences.

I am standing for General and Vascular Chair because I have a strong interest in vascular surgery and would like to play an active role in creating opportunities for students to explore the specialty. I am keen to organise events that provide insight into vascular surgery, from clinical practice to career pathways, while encouraging engagement within the society.

Through my previous roles as INUGSC Secretary (2025/26) and Preclinical Education Officer for the Medical Society (2024/25), I have gained experience in organising events, coordinating with committee members, and supporting student engagement. These positions have helped me develop organisational and communication skills while giving me insight into how successful societies operate.

Taking on the role of General and Vascular Chair would allow me to build on this experience within a larger committee while learning from those currently running the society. I am particularly keen to work collaboratively, take advice from the existing team, and contribute to maintaining and expanding the opportunities available to students interested in surgery.

Overall, I hope to support the society in delivering valuable teaching sessions, career-focused events, and networking opportunities that encourage students to explore vascular surgery.