Hello Roehampton,

My name is Ardalan Forootani Nia and I am honored to announce my candidacy for RSU Vice-President, Community and Welfare.

As a student life specialist at Nest, College Community Leader (CCL), student representative, social media influencer and MSc Digital Marketing student, I bring a diverse range of experiences to the table.

Values:

As an international student, since the beginning of my studies and employment at Roehampton, my primary goals have included equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as respecting everyone. I am dedicated to ensuring that student voices are NOT ONLY HEARD but also RESPECTED AND ACTED UPON.

Key Issues and Solutions:

1- Living Cost Crisis - Your financial matters!

With 65% of Roehampton students experiencing financial anxiety (RSU Survey, 2023),

I will

• Spearhead initiatives, making every penny count.
• Forge partnerships with the National Union of Students (NUS) for expanded financial support.
• Ensure transparency in financial assistance programs.

2- Student Housing - Secure your sanctuary!

As student accommodation prices have increased by 61% since 2012 in the UK (NUS, 2021) and regarding limited availability and rising costs ranging from £5,421 to £9,009 for 39-week tenancies (RSU, 2024),

I will

• Fight for a freeze on student housing rents.
• Champion safe and affordable housing options for everyone.
• Protect you from harmful rentel reforms.

3- Taking Care of Each Other - Your well-being matters! 

The RSU Big Survey revealed that 70% of students reported increased mental health issues, with only 40% participating in student activities.

I will

• Implement proactive mental health initiatives.
• Foster a culture of well-being through events.
• Advocate for accessible well-being services.

4- Graduate Outcomes - Your Future Matters!

RSU Big Survey indicate that 60% of students are currently in paid employment, focusing on future career paths.

I will

• Create unparalleled industry networking opportunities.
• Expand placement and internship options.
• Provide transparent career support.

5- Diversity and Inclusion - Building Unity in Community!

Failure to address this can lead to exclusion and a lack of belonging for students from diverse backgrounds.

I will

• Foster a sense of belonging for all individuals.
• Commit to diversity and inclusion initiatives.
• Actively engage with students for meaningful changes.

Why Me?

I bring diverse leadership experiences and a genuine passion for student welfare:

Throughout my MSc Digital Marketing program, I held the positions of CCL and Student Representative. As a CCL, I led multiple events, including spearheading the coordination and execution of the successful 'International Dessert Festival' a pioneering initiative at the University of Roehampton. As a student representative, I focused on elevating student voices and fighting for their needs. In addition, as a Student Life Specialist at Nest, I proudly serve as the primary campus contact for students, staff, and the public to provide clear and accessible information. 

I would love your vote, so that together, we can empower student voice and cultivate a university experience we can all be proud of.

Feel free to reach out to me at forootaa@roehampton.ac.uk or send a direct message on Instagram: @ardalanfn_roe.

Warm regards,
Ardalan Forootani Nia