Genetics Society: Welfare Officer

As a current first-year Biochemistry student, I have experienced firsthand the intense transition into university life. From the pressure of keeping up with assignments to the challenge of finding a sense of belonging in a large department. I am running for Welfare Officer because I want to ensure the Genetics Society is more than just an academic resource, I want it to be a genuine support system. Having navigated the "imposter syndrome" and high-stakes environment of our first year, I am uniquely positioned to advocate for our cohort and the incoming freshers, ensuring that mental health is prioritized alongside academic achievement. As someone who has experienced mental health issues and has supported many other friends through theirs I believe I would be perfect for this position.

My vision focuses on "Low-Intensity Inclusion" and accessible peer support. I plan to introduce "De-stress Study Socials" which would consist of casual meetups where members can collaborate on coursework in a relaxed, non-competitive atmosphere and "Sober Socials" like trips or game nights to ensure every member can also enjoy some fun activities that will prevent burn-out. I commit to being an approachable, non-judgmental point of contact, undergoing full Union welfare training to bridge the gap between students and university resources. My goal is to transform the Genetics Society into a community where we don’t just survive the degree, but thrive together

I am running for Welfare Officer because I am passionate about providing environments for ambitious and curious students to thrive, rather than to feel pressured to succeed. 

Genetics is a complex and intellectually challenging field with many ethical considerations. I’ve personally witnessed that the passion for genetics and scientific exploration often leads to heated discussions and debates and learned that growth and exploration occur best within environments where individuals feel comfortable expressing their uncertainties and disagreements. 

Having moved to a new city during my early years of education and helping to build new communities has given me empathy for individuals within these environments. I have witnessed how powerful it feels to be heard and understood by others, especially within environments where competition and pressure to succeed are common. 

As Welfare Officer, I would strive to create dialogue and peer support initiatives and events to promote well-being. I want members to feel that the Genetics Society is not just for exploring genetics and intellectual curiosity but also for feeling supported and understood within the society.