Hi, I’m Rebekah (she/her), and I’m running to be your Undergraduate Education Officer for 2024/25. 

During my three years at UEA, I’ve been involved in many aspects of both University Life and the Student Union, in fact its likely I have poured most of you a pint. 

My experience: 

• Two and a half years at the SU, working as bars/events staff, Team Leader and Shift Leader.
• Women’s Officer 2023/24.
• Deputy Chair of the Student Officers Committee.
• Three years on Ballet Committee (First Year Rep, Secretary, Competition Rep).
• Emma Jonathan Fund Treasurer.

It would be an honour to be elected to represent the student body and if chosen my aims would be: 

Enhancing Academic Experience:

Lecture and Seminar Recordings: Lobby for the recording of lectures and seminars with policies extending to small cohorts, guaranteeing educational resources for all. Advocating on behalf of access requirements and revision purposes.

Course and Academic Rep Restructuring: Pledge to re-evaluate the course and academic rep structure for greater efficiency and effectiveness. After three years at UEA I’m yet to know who my reps have been, and I want to change this! Making them more accessible and helpful for the greater student body as opposed to unreachable. 

Access requirements: Work with the university to streamline the process of reporting access requirements making it more accessible, ensuring that student’s requirements are met, (I found the current system incredibly difficult to navigate). Introducing an accountability system for when these requirements are not being met or catered for.

Timetabling: Pressure the university to continue the early release of timetables as drafts for student benefit. Also, challenging the system as a whole, in terms of correct room allocation ensuring teaching groups can fit in the rooms their timetabled in.

Optimising University Resources:

Library Printing and Allowance: Advocate for a printing allowance for each student to be introduced. Increase sessions accordingly on how to use printers on campus, therefore encouraging students to use available resources.

Efficient Room Booking: Focus on simplifying room and space booking processes. Targeting the library system and additional spaces like Blue Bar and The Hive for easier student bookings.

Strengthening Student Support:

Advisor/Advisee Interactions: Introduce mandatory check-in points with advisors. Whether one-on-one or in groups, let's ensure every student feels supported throughout their academic journey.

Content Warnings: Push for content warnings on readings and lecture subject matter, promoting a considerate learning environment for all.

Curriculum Decolonisation: Take advantage of curriculum rewrites and strive for increased inclusivity, advocating for a higher representation of women, non-binary individuals, and ethnic minorities. 

Enhancing Student Engagement:

SU Representation: Focus on enhancing engagement within the SU. Ensure students feel heard and represented by officers, course reps, and academic reps.

Drop-In Sessions: Commit to continuing successful initiatives such as drop-in sessions in the Hive officers' hub.

I want to empower students by working on your behalf to get the most out of your undergraduate experience at UEA! I hope that I can count on your vote.