Who We Are?
The Non-Traditional Students Forum is one of six autonomous liberation campaigns affiliated under the Aberdeen University Students’ Association. We are here to represent students who don’t fit within the “traditional” norms of being a university student. We represent students who fit into a different age group than “traditional” students, have families, children, or dependents. We are all-inclusive, however, and welcome all students.
The Non-Traditional Student Forum is a community at the University of Aberdeen who acts as a liaison between societies, students, and AUSA. We provide a voice for you here at the university while offering you representation within the university. We aim to provide activities and events that are different, meaningful, and enjoyable for everyone.
This community will also hold monthly events to help students socialise, form friendships, and provide them a safe space to feel represented around campus. We are always seeking new members and we welcome all students.
Who are the Non-traditional Students?
Non-traditional students, by definition, are students who do not fit the means of the average university student. They may be older, returning students after years away from school, be married, have children or dependents or have work obligations as well as their courses.
President and Convener
Melissa LaRose (PGR)
Hi!! I’m currently a second year PGR student working toward a PhD in Ethnology at the Elphinstone Institute. I'm a mom to three beautiful children, two sons and one daughter. I'm also a Student Ambassador for the University of Aberdeen. I understand what it takes to be a NON-TRADITIONAL STUDENT which is why I wanted to create a place for students, like myself, to call their own. My dissertation is on how modern society relates to fairy lore. I am passionate about giving students of all ages, cultural backgrounds, genders AND their families a place to socialise, meet new people, have their voices heard, and enjoy fun, family-friendly events! I'm a photographer and love to be outside enjoying walks in the Cruickshank Botanical Gardens and by the sea every chance I get.
Vice President
Amreen Ayaz (PGT)
I'm currently pursuing an MLitt in English Language and Literature, with earlier master’s degrees in Political Science and International Relations. My research focuses on identity, freedom, and belonging in postcolonial literature, particularly through the lens of tradition and modernity. I'm equally passionate about security studies, strategic thinking, and risk analysis — fields that continue to shape how I see power and conflict. Outside academia, I’m an artist with a longstanding passion for creative expression — and a devoted Star Wars fan who finds meaning in galaxies far, far away.
Optional Suggested Reading:
https://moderncampus.com/blog/what-is-a-non-traditional-learner.html
https://www.forbes.com/sites/markcperna/2025/04/01/why-nontraditional-students-are-becoming-the-new-norm/
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/2332858418782195