Introduction

I'm Raúl Placencia, a political scientist. I am running for the position of Vice President of Education. I seek to improve students' academic opportunities in a challenging post-pandemic period of inclusion and collaboration among all. I love science fiction, bad movies and absurd humour. I think I'm a fantasy writer.

What are your three priorities for the year?

Strengthen the links between students and academic units, improving the frequency of meetings and receipt of concerns.

Reconnect students and careers with their peers in Scotland, the UK, and other universities abroad.

We are living through a period of crises regarding the costs of living, academic needs and, for the same reason, challenges that force us to seek new financing alternatives for students through scholarships granted by private companies or entities related to careers.

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

I'm an "old" student, with experience in international relations, making contact with authorities and participating i bilateral and multilateral meetings.

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

At this time, the severe increase in the cost of living in Scotland and the world complicates not only acquiring books but the quality of the physical and mental life of the student.