Introduction
My name is Sultan, and I’m currently studying Energy Law LLM. I’ve had the privilege of working as an Energy Specialist at the government of Turkey, where I coordinated various projects funded by the European Union. Through these experiences, I’ve gained valuable knowledge about the procedures of funding allocations and releases, time management, and multi-tasking.
I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer with my children's primary school Parent Council, where I learned the importance of engaging with local communities and supporting those in need, particularly through food banks. This experience has taught me how to work collaboratively with different stakeholders, including community members, volunteers, and organizations. I believe that this experience has given me valuable insights and skills that will be relevant to the role of Vice President of Welfare.
As a candidate for Welfare, I am committed to advocating for the needs and interests of all students, particularly those who are most vulnerable, and will work to ensure that they receive the support they need to thrive. Furthermore, I am committed to raising awareness and advocating for students' welfare issues. I will work diligently to bring attention to the challenges that students face in their daily lives, both on and off-campus. I believe that by working collaboratively with University Management, Government, and City Council, we can create real change that positively impacts student well-being.
What are your three priorities for the year?
My three priorities for the year are to:
- Provide free shuttles to city-center, to improve the libraries by increasing spaces and resources, as well as providing amenities such as lockers
- Enhance dining halls, cafes, and lounges to improve the quality and variety of food, accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, and create more social spaces, provide free-breakfasts and discounted full-lunches,
- Ensure that alumni have continued access to online resources and services after graduation and advocate for better integration of students through cultural classes, bake-off evenings, and social events to help them feel more connected to the university and their peers.
What unique skill/knowledge can you bring to the role to stand out from the other candidates?
As an experienced lawyer, I’ve developed strong organizational skills, time management abilities, and multitasking capabilities. During my time working for the government, I gained valuable experience in managing funds and navigating legal issues, and as a volunteer for the Seaton School Parent Council, I honed my community engagement skills. These skills make me ready for this role, and I am eager to apply them to benefit the welfare of all students.
What do you think is the biggest issue that students are facing at the moment and how do you plan to tackle it?
As a parent-student myself, I understand that the cost of living is a major issue affecting many of us. It's important for us to have access to affordable housing, healthy and nutritious food, and adequate financial support to ensure that we can focus on our studies and make the most of our university experience. I believe that by working with the Students' Union, the University, and the Government, we can come up with practical solutions to address these challenges and ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive right before stepping forward the real life.
