A March update at the start of May ? It’s like florals for spring – predictable. Who would’ve guessed that Education Officer blogs would be delayed thanks to the slew of exams, the start of semester two, OFFICER ELECTIONS, and anything and everything thrown this way ?

Okay but for real, I swear I do have a personality and job outside of elections, so here are key moments I want to highlight from March, even a month(ish) later.

‘Council Speed Dating’

Right after campaign week, we all got right back into the flow of it all.

We collaborated with the University Council and students to ensure the highest governing body at the University was informed about student perspectives on five key topics: housing, community, space, academic experience, and postgraduate matters.

I worked on Academic Experience alongside the incredibly talented Ahmad Mahmood Alkuchikmulla, Jessica Lighterness, Jessica Smith, and Penn Mackintosh. Describing their commitment to the student experience as impressive would be an understatement; they all engage with a vast range of students not only in terms of quantity but also in the breadth of their activities.

From this, we took away key messaging about communication and language, space, departmental differences, exam perceptions, assessment and feedback, and the concept of students as peers. As I write this, the writeup of this is set to go back to Council for all (including the VC !) to read. I’ll keep you posted !

One Young World

Y’all when I say I have the COOLEST faculty reps I mean it – so when Ahmad asked if I was coming to One Young World to see him speak I dragged my sick self out, and I am so so glad I did. Ahmad spoke about Peace and Reconciliation (SDG16), specifically around his heritage being from Kurdistan, and did so with such eloquence and knowledge – he was simply a delight. You can catch the stream thanks to CampusTV on Youtube, and I recommend a watch !

Drag for Swag

Last but not least, I got to help judge Drag For Swag - a drag competition that helped raise funds for the gender expression fund. As the night, ticket sales alone helped raise enough funds to support nearly 50 students access a range of gender affirming items - from makeup to swimwear, that they would not otherwise be able to access.

Between the cost of living crisis, and the current attitude towards trans people here in the UK, it is amazing to see the establishment of a fund that doesn't require you to prove your identity or financial status in the way other funds do.

We had acts that had the whole room screaming, screeching, yelling, banging on benches and tables - Remy Melee was an absolute star of an host, Izzie Iman brought together pop culture references new and old seamlessly and brought the most amazing and unexpected costume change, En Titty gave the most enchanting burlesque-esque performance and stole the hearts of the front row, and our winner, Kiki Riku showed energy I didn't even know was possible in a dance that perfectly combined the voguing of the classic ballroom scene and tik-tok famous moves.