You may ask yourself why vote at all for GSA President?

As postgraduates, we have all chosen University of York because it is already a great university,
but it can always be better. We all deserve a great and rewarding time here and the GSA play a
huge role in helping us integrate, access various activities and receive support when needed. With
so many things going on, it is important that the GSA is coordinated professionally and to the
benefit of the students.
Why vote for me?
As the only PhD candidate, my experience can benefit both Masters and PhD students. Having
lived and studied abroad a lot, I speak several languages and can relate to different cultures and
experiences, skills which are important for the role of GSA president.
As I speak to postgraduates around campus, it becomes clear to me that there is a lot I could do as
GSA president to improve the quality of student life. Master students tend to complain about
cultural isolation and a lack of good opportunities to meet and interact with people from different
backgrounds. If elected, my aim would be to build cross-cultural networks through activities such
as film nights, pub quizzes and fun sporting events in which anyone can take part.
For PhD students, the main complaints are related to academic work. Not all departments have
the same regulations about printing allowances, conference expenses, and related issues, and I
believe it is important for the GSA to lobby for those provisions so that everyone has equal
opportunities. Ensuring more desk spaces is also on top of the list because everyone involved in
academic work knows how important it is to have their own quiet space to do work. A final point
for PhD students is to improve the quality of workshops and training on offer.
I am currently supporting a Buddy System in my department, where older postgraduate students
volunteer to welcome and support newer students. As GSA president, I would like to see this
system implemented in other departments as well.
The GSA have been doing a great job, and the team are continuously working on improving
student life. With my leadership, the team can make things even better in 2014/2015.