Introduction

Hey everyone, my name is Karim and I’m running to become your new Vice President for Welfare. I am graduating with a Psychology degree in the summer and have experience working with the SU through society committee roles and with the university as a student ambassador. Studying psychology has developed my passion for mental health and welfare which I plan to use to help all students.

What are your three priorities for the year?

1. Improve the welfare and sense of belonging of all students

I believe there are many things we can do on campus to improve the welfare and belonging of our students. Hosting events that develop a sense of community and belonging is the first step in ensuring students feel better on campus. A lot of our international students live far from home, and developing a sense of belonging in Aberdeen will help them make the most of their time here, while celebrating the diversity they bring into campus life. We must also make mental health resources more accessible and approachable to all students.

2. Work with clubs and societies to promote mental health

Clubs and societies form a large part of the students’ union. Being able to utilize them in improving students’ welfare and mental health can help us create a campus where we can all feel well. Clubs and societies can provide academic, athletic, or creative outlets for students to express and challenge themselves and develop a sense of belonging within these groups. We also need to highlight the importance of being active on our physical and mental health keeping them in balance to ensure wellbeing for students.

3. Continuing campaigns on welfare, mental health, and cost of living

Issues related to student welfare and mental health, as well as the ongoing cost of living crisis are all issues that weigh on students’ minds and influence their welfare. Campaigning on these issues can help us gain additional funding and support for students to support them during these difficult times. Those in positions of power need to use their voice to amplify the voices of those who we represent and we need to be involved in decision-making.

What unique skill/knowledge can you bring to the role to stand out from the other candidates? 

Growing up multicultural has always meant I am different wherever I go. As a result, I am cooperative, easily approachable, and naturally looking for ways to communicate with people with different backgrounds. I have learned to connect and mediate between different standpoints from a young age, and I believe these are valuable skills to ensure smooth communication between students, the students’ union, and university management.

What do you think is the biggest issue that students are facing at the moment and how do you plan to tackle it?        

The lack of focus on students’ mental health and wellbeing is alarming, and I want to ensure that student welfare is focused on throughout the university. The individual experience of struggling with mental health and wellbeing looks different with each person, and I want to help develop a community approach to helping our struggling student find the help they need and get to speak to professionals who can aid. In doing so, I want to ensure all students feel their mental health and wellbeing are supported on campus and around Aberdeen.