Manifesto for the position of International Students' Officer - Rahul Rajan
As an international student pursuing my MSc in Environmental Management, I understand the unique challenges and joys that come with studying far from home. I am committed to creating an environment where all international students at the University of Hertfordshire feel supported, empowered, and integrated. As your International Students' Officer, I will work to ensure your university experience is enriching, inclusive, and fulfilling.
My Key Priorities that I would like to focus on:
1. Enhancing Student Support Services
I will advocate for easily accessible support services for the needs of international students, including counselling, academic support, and mental health resources. Most students are not used to the academic style of writing assignments/reports and often find it hard to adapt to the fast paced environment of their programs.
I recognize the unique mental health challenges international students face and will push for culturally sensitive counselling options and mental health workshops to promote well-being.
2. Building Social Connections and Cultural Integration
My aim is to organize regular cultural exchange events, social gatherings, and festival celebrations that showcase the diversity of our student body and create lasting social connections and fostering a welcoming environment through these events, we can bridge the gap between international and domestic students, promoting cultural understanding and create a sense of community.
3. Tackling Language Barriers
Language can be a barrier to fully participating in university life. I look forward to supporting students with language workshops to help international students gain confidence in their language skills that can help with academics and socializing and enabling them to make the most of out of their university experience.
4. Expanding Networking and Career Development Opportunities
I believe in the power of professional networks. As an international student, we are always looking to expand our network and build connections, through the events I will have the opportunity to organize, I aim to bring together the student community together to network and help each other professionally. Through partnerships with local businesses, alumni, and university career services, I aim to provide international students with clear pathways for professional development and real-world experience.
5. Addressing Financial and Housing Concerns
I will collaborate with university services to provide transparent information on financial aid options, including scholarships and bursaries specifically for international students.
6. Promoting Mental Health and Well-Being
I am committed to ensuring that mental health support is readily available and culturally inclusive, as many international students face unique challenges like homesickness, culture shock and adjustment stress.
I will advocate for mental health workshops, stress management programs, and regular peer support groups to foster a campus where mental well-being is prioritized.
7. Improving Communication and Representation
International students deserve a strong voice in university policies that affect them. I will work to ensure your feedback is heard by university leadership, and that your concerns shape campus policies.
I also plan to make regular use of all the communication channels we have to keep all international students informed of events, resources, and support services that are relevant to them.
As International Students' Officer, my commitment is to foster an inclusive, vibrant, and supportive university experience for all international students. By addressing the challenges of language, cultural adaptation, social connection, mental health, and professional growth, I am dedicated to representing your needs and making your voice heard.
Thank you.
Regards,
Rahul