GSU OFFICER CANDIDATES
Q&A

 

 

 

 
 

 

 
 

Anu Siby

NUS Delegate

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

I personally believe that the university has handled the COVID-19 situation to the best of their ability, as social distancing measures were implemented wherever possible as well as the increased amount of anti-bacterial gels available especially outside the classrooms. As for example in the Pembroke café where I regularly visited had numerous desks removed to adequately allow the 2m distances between them, decreasing chances of spreading the disease.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

I would try and improve the student experience by trying to connect the students between the years better from their courses, as I am sure it will be extremely insightful for the students to be able to foresee what the oncoming year will be like. Providing an opportunity to share study techinuques and tips as well. This can be done by forming course specific forums displayed on their moodle pages.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

I would help by being available, as most of the times talking to someone about the issues the person is facing can help massively, as together we would be able to work out any practical steps needed especially after being at uni for 2 years now. If they do need further help, I can try and signpost them to the appropriate person.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

initiator, listener, critical thinker

 
 

Luciana-Elena Popescu

GSU Officer, NUS Delegate

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

The University of Greenwich tries to handle COVID-19 as well as possible. Engagement improvements can be made, by creating more surveys, asking for feedback about the services and what the students wish to see more often.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

I would encourage sharing more personal development opportunities and multicultural opportunities, as well. I would also try to bring up more and more relevant opportunities and work closely with more NGOs

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

I would outline good tips and would empathise a lot with them and encourage them to use the support services provided.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Student-based, Strategic, Ambitious

 
 

Shay

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

The university has handled the covid-19 situation a little too extreme. They have cut of all face to face teachings & taken all activities online. This is enough to break any students morale. While these actions are responsible, they also make the university experience for students, really negative. University is about meeting new people, making new friends, expanding your horizons and trying new things. The university should ensure that they increase face-to-face teachings and activities.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

By including more face to face activities, lessons and socials-with social distancing. We are all adults here and if everyone engages with the basic procedures of staying Covid-proof then there is no reason that face to face activities should be kept online only. I would increase part time job opportunities for students as I understand that university is expensive and students need money.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

I will personally be holding live or pre-recorded fitness workouts and mindfulness techniques. Tips and tricks on how to release stress in a healthy way, so that students can function optimally. I would stress the importance of talking to someone about ones struggles rather than keeping it in. I will offer my compassion and the best advice to those students who feel that they are struggling. I will offer a save haven for students to open up and talk about their problems.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

 Practical, Compassionate, Optimistic

 
 

Moses BUKOLA

GSU Officer, NUS Delegate

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

University of Greenwich have always been guided by available evidence from Public Health England, NHS and the local guidelines and directives. Occasionally, I would like to see the university take and make a much more swift independent decisions whilst other agencies are trying to harmonise their guidelines. The autonomy of the institutions means they can readily give directives based on their own unique local experience that can be evidenced.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

It is very important that we seek out every student of this great institution to engage in one activity or the other and to create a ‘social bubble’ group of some sort , so that we can all be our ‘brothers and sisters’ keeper during the challenging times. This is because many students suffer in silence , bottling issues up and keeping to themselves. I want to improve on existing social activities ( on and off-campus) and make them all-inclusive at minimal or no cost to students at all Our sites.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

I want to ensure that we improve on any current hardship funds by facilitating more donors participants from various organisations and charities. Additionally, exploring how to improve the capacity of our psychologists and counselling services to support struggling students undergoing challenges. The master level students and finalists of our institution in fields of psychology, counselling and other therapeutic career are potentially available resource pool that can be requested to volunteer.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Transformational, laissez-faire and charismatic

 
 

Martina Gozzi

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

The University of Greenwich has not supported student. Students who study a more practical course are not satisfied with their learning, and some teachers failed in supporting students on the academic level. Considering that they had the whole summer to develop a plan, they should have considered more effective solutions. Teachers are giving old, pre-recorded lectures. Tutors are failing in supporting 3rd years students who are writing their dissertation.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

Improve the support of the institution considering students on the individual level. To do so, both the academic and social aspects of the UoG need to be more focused on students' experiences as people and not just in terms of how good the course is doing (the final average results overall). Especially considering what we have been through this year, every student can experience moments of struggle, the support from the staff is essential.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

Be there for students—advocate for students' support by working on student well-being services and support societies. Be the bridge between the institution of the UoG and the students. As a GSU Officer, I would work towards a more inclusive community.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

 Action, Support and Dedication

 
 

SUMEET SARODE

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

Well, what I have personally experienced during the first lockdown that University tried their best in terms of supporting their students, But somewhere I feel that studies were compromised too. Also International Hardship funds wasn't made available for those who were in need. In all the support was average

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

By walking into the ground listing to their complaints and communicating with the respective department presenting the solution set.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

Keeping an open platform for communication for any sort of help needed , by understanding and addressing the issues to right department.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Straight-forward, Problem-Solver, Walking Together

 
 

Nick Jones

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

I think there’s been pros and cons of how he university has handled Covid. For me, I was promised blended teaching, a mix of on-campus and online teaching but I’ve only had online classes for the whole year (though my lecturers have adapted brilliantly to this). I think there needs to be more clarity in rent costs for those in halls who have moved home.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

Have somewhere with all the answers (and if this exists already then draw far more attention to it). Make student more aware of the extra-curricular, financial and academic opportunities available to them, to help students get the most of their time at university (outside of their course).

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

Far more accessible mental health support. Create a space that students can access live and talk to one another to combat loneliness. Have regular check-ins from the SU regarding mental health and well-being, with a link or offer of replying to the email with any issues. Promote the work we’re doing and own up when we haven’t been focusing on an important issue (and then rectify this).

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Proactive, Inclusive and Motivated

 
 

Luke Arscott

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

It hasn’t been perfect, there are students who have not received what they pay for. The university acknowledge this. Communication needs to be improved but I think that it is good that test sites have been situated on our campuses. We need to support Greenwich to get us back to campus quickly and safely so that we can make the most of this life event. Wellbeing support has not matched what they say so I would like to challenge them on this as GSU Officer to give everyone support.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

Cross-campus collaboration is something I’ve been keen to work on since first year. This includes societies being able to meet their counterparts in Medway. A collaboration would encourage ideas sharing and create opportunities for exciting team-ups. I want to set up weekly drop-ins for students, so we really get to know you and problems you face. Then we can tackle what really matters – you. I’ve shaped experiences in FES and want to bring my skills to the wider university.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

A wellbeing approach would be developed to allow peer support and an efficient wellbeing support service to reduce waiting times. Feeling good about your time at university should be normal. Check in phone calls and emails, and more targeted help is my suggestion for support. Knowing who might benefit from what support and when they might need it is key. I will be behind GSU every step to support students in every meeting and panel to ensure fairness and meaningful results.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Directional, Motivational, Inspirational

 
 

Malachi Jones

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

The handling of the Pandemic has been supportive in many ways such as the laxing of EC’s and Wellbeing calls to all Students during the period of online learning. However, far more can be done… We need more Counsellors on the team to shorten waiting times and ensure Students get the support they require. Additional academic support is required to lessen the blow to Students having to cope with online learning, which is ultimately not the same as in person with many students finding it very hard.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

I would improve Student experience by building on the network of Societies and Sports teams, improving the sense of community we have at the University. I would do this by creating a New Societies Creation Fund allowing Students to create new Societies easier. I would also strive to lessen the notice period required to have key speakers on campus making it easier for Societies to organise networking events for Students, allowing for better personal development.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

I would help GSU better support Students by having a strong Mental Health focus, through better promotion of pre-existing Mental Health and Wellbeing services available at the University. I would also push for more counsellors on the team as a response to Covid-19 and allowing for shorter waiting times. Additionally, I would run a Mental Health Awareness week to open the discussion of Mental Health on campus and creating a safe space for Students to receive help should they need to.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Approachable, Passionate, Proactive

 
 

Nele Leitolf

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

On-campus testing was successful, the process is free and provides timely results to all students and staff. However, the pandemic has exposed a lack of accessible mental health services on campus. We must do better. Students are paying for rooms they cannot live in, and were promised a student experience that never happened. Many are still struggling to get the academic support they need. As GSU Officer, I will work with the wider university to find solutions to the issues that you care about.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

I will encourage students to join societies and sports teams. To achieve this, I will work to eliminate entry fees, as well as fast-tracking the creation of new societies. GSU should provide more funding for activities, travel and equipment. I will also work with the university to increase financial relief and support for students who are struggling. This will include a range of measures designed to ensure that every student can make the most of their time regardless of class or background.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

As GSU Officer, I will make mental health services more accessible. I will also work with the faculties to improve 1-on-1 academic skills support. This is part of my wider commitment to support all students through a holistic approach to wellbeing. I will also work to make sure that students are aware of the full range of available support: workshops, technical support and awareness initiatives. University can be difficult, let’s make sure that everyone gets the help and support they need.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Experienced, empathetic, driven

 
 

Boluwatife Sowunmi

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

The University has done a lot so far giving the situation of the country right now. Mental health and well being has been the most important focus of the University. Classes have been moved online, which for some may be great but for others including some lecturers, is can be a nightmare. I think the university should set up a tutorial session for the older lecturers who are not used to teaching online or using the teams app. this would go a long way.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

Continue to promote inclusivity and diversity Raise more awareness on mental health Appeal to the university to provide financial support to international students without asking for proof. Refund fees for those who have interrupted their studies or cannot complete their study due to the pandemic. Promote social interactions between students.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

Liaising with other officers and student reps to raise concerns and table it to the university board. Create avenues where students can get the specific help they need. Promoting social events which includes all students.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

democratic, transformational, hands-on

 
 

Vaishali Shivaji Patil

GSU Officer, NUS Delegate

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

University has taken certain steps to improve the student experience through, blended Learning, surveys and M S Teams. But this is not satisfactory, UoG should build strong communication platform, quick replies for emails and calls as everything has shifted online. Also, one to one online meeting with students can be a great help for discussing issues and providing solutions.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

I will improve,
•Career counselling and CV checking workshop for students.
•Taking efforts to connect industry connections.
•Career days to speak to employers from top companies.
•Relevant Passport points system to get employability. •Opportunities for placements and internships.
•Online committee of mental health ambassadors and fitness instructors, through which students can get expected support.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

• Initiate campaigning for BAME, LGBTQ+ minority class and Equal rights will be given including women’s and individuals with handicaps.
• Organise engaging course based social events, more cheaper food options available at Avery hill and review the prices and timetable for Medway buses.
• Arrange more reliable accommodation providers and negotiate regarding the pricing also strengthen security patrol in areas where students appear frequently.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

democratic, transformational, hands-on

 
 

Ayan Samatar

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

University of Greenwich have handled the COVID-19 situation the best they could, however improvements could be made. They have followed the government guidelines; enforced masks to be worn in all buildings, ensured cleaning stations are provided in the buildings and moved everything online. However, there are negatives: • Backlog of appointments for Mental Health and Wellbeing • Students paying rent for rooms they are not staying in • Students missing out on the student experience • And more!

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

Sport and Societies: Due to the pandemic, the sports and societies have been unable to happen in person. The sports and societies are essential for the student experience as it is one of the best ways to make the most of your time at university. I will make sure that the sports facilities are improved. For example, new equipment, training zones, and weekly casual sports activities and many more. I will ensure funding is provided for the societies and sports.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

Mental Health: Students have to wait long times to get an appointment. I would decrease the waiting time and increase funding to provide additional counsellors as majority of the students have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. I want to implement check-ups, so students are consistently contacted about their wellbeing and their concerns are followed up. More promotion of Mental Health and Wellbeing Services provided, so students know who to contact and where to go to should they need it.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Initiator, Motivator, Listener

 
 

Sharifa Yakubu

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

Whilst I understand the university did what they thought was best with limited period to adjust, I think they could have handled it a lot better. Numerous students have lost incredible amounts of money on accommodation fees. Mental health support could have been so much better. Lectures, in most cases, were not up to standard. There is so much that could have been avoided had the university been a bit more organised and critical of their decisions.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

Personally, in order to improve the student experience at the university, I would first work towards improving the mental health services available to students. I would also work with the societies and various groups of students to identify their concerns and work with them on reliable, practical solutions. Furthermore, I would work towards improving diversity and inclusion. Every student has the right to feel represented and accounted for by the university.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

I plan to introduce various activities, workshops, facilities, and extra staff to help support students who struggle with mental health. In terms of academic support, I would also introduce workshops to help students. Most importantly, I would encourage extra aid and facility for disabled students and students with learning difficulties. Lastly, I would introduce less rigid criteria for students struggling financially to help them get financial help more quickly.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Inclusive of everyone.

 
 

Roshini Joseph Mathew

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

University of Greenwich is doing all they can to contribute to the national effort against the outbreak of Covid-19, by ensuring their students are supported through the pandemic. Several university projects are hoping to help with our wellbeing, such as that of assigning of an outreach ambassador to check upon students welfare. Academically everything is online and seminars are the interactive accompaniment to lectures where everything is accessible within a click away.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

I will make sure every student at the University of Greenwich has a better student life at the campus. I will conduct regular checks with student representatives, societies , also conduct surveys in person and gather all information to find the issues that can be addressed to the management. My survey will have every student related queries that needs help. Work together to sort problems and male it together a win win campus.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

I will work closely with the current objectives set by the GSU. Be the trusted source of information for every student. Being easily reliable and helping students have their voice heard. Connect with people and address issues of students, finding solutions and alternatives to support every students at the University of Greenwich.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Participative, Transformational and Servant Leadership style

 
 

Naa Kotey

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

I feel the university believes that they've done the best that they can and yes, there has been considerable effort, but the execution leaves a lot to be desired. Pro: Covid hardship funds and the acknowledgement of digital poverty Con: Not every student is legible to apply Con: There's still confusion on how it works, and which courses it applies to. Pro: Advice centre and welfare calls Con: Delayed response times A lot has been done, but to what effect?

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

I'd work on creating more opportunities for intermingling between the campuses. Students on other campuses have been known to feel disenfranchised from the main university. -Better access to and communication of support. I'm aware that a variety of services have been made available, however, student feedback suggests a delay in responses. Many are still unaware that such services are available to them. I'd work on finding ways to effectively spread information.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

Firstly, appreciate that every student is unique and faces a unique set of challenges. I'd invest time into identifying our student demographic and common challenges faced, then take deliberate steps to solve them, whilst actively consulting the students in question. Humans are naturally gregarious individuals. To make actual impact in supporting students, we need to address their mental and emotional needs, beyond academics.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Cool, calm, collected

 
 

Zoë Campbell

GSU Officer, NUS Delegate

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

I have seen the work that's been happening and do think the university is trying, in some places leading the sector, with things like No Detriment which many universities refuse to even consider. That said, I think it's important to note the shortfalls, whether it’s conflicting priorities, or simply not taking on our recommendations until it's too late. They need to do more to communicate about the work they have done, and to actively seek and trust students as experts in our own experience.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

It's vital that we develop students beyond their studies, giving them opportunities to develop skills, meet new people, and manage their wellbeing. I want student groups to be recognised by the university for value they add, and for more students to have the opportunity to develop as leaders. Cultural exchange and networking are also key - The University is a mini version of society, but one we can shape to ensure that all students feel they belong, and where we can learn to be active allies.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

It's important we create spaces for students who are struggling. I’ve seen first hand how a consultation, student group, or network provide comfortable space to air your concerns. I want to protect these, and ensure we continue to open up. I want to empower students to use their union, and to steer it in the ways they want. We need to do better as a union to platform students, and to make sure that the university take their concerns seriously. Students know best what students need.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Collaborative, Creative, Consultative

 
 

Ruth Ejigayehu

GSU Officer, NUS Delegate

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

I think the university has done the best they can in line with the government progressions.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

I would like students to have better visibility, clarity and access to all the student services there are.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

Besides improving areas in wellbeing, togetherness and environment, I would listen to suggestions and thoughts students have on what kind of meaningful change they are looking forward to see.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Inspired, Understanding, Focused

 
 

Yasinur Rashid Jabed

GSU Officer

 

What are your views on the University of Greenwich's handling of Covid-19?

So far university did well in terms of handling COVID-19. But, I guess it could do better in terms of planning new learning method. First lockdown started around March 2020, there was long summer break where uni could plan new teaching method well. But it did not do as expected. There still confusion around online learning system exists. There was overlapping of timetable, mismanagement. Uni could work more on effective communication.

How would you improve the student experience (not including teaching)?

Improving students mental health is priority to improve the student experience. My manifesto covers different ways to improve students mental health. I am also strong supporter of making students communities connected for better university life and fighting loneliness. Development of societies and sports teams will be my second priority to keep students connected and improving student experience.

How would you help GSU support students who struggle while at University?

Effective communication is one the biggest problems we are facing. First, I believe, we have to understand where and why students are struggling then work on solutions. I will be a direct communicator for students to GSU.

In three words how would you describe your leadership style?

Democratic, Strategic, Empathetic