So, here we are again. Second term, first month back, and we are back to writing about what I have done this month for you amazing students! It's crazy to think that I only have five more of these to write and each of them is more enjoyable than the last. So, what have I achieved this month?
Mental Health Network / Bystander Team
Building upon the success of our Movember initiative in the first term, I am now collaborating with the bystander team to develop a comprehensive network of students trained in mental health awareness and active bystander intervention. This expanded program aims to create a support system within our student community, offering numerous benefits including enhanced CV and employability skills, improved peer support, increased campus safety, personal growth, stronger community connections and reduced mental health stigma. By training students in critical skills like communication, and crisis management, we're supporting individual participants and contributing to a more supportive and mentally healthy academic environment. The initiative empowers students to recognise and assist classmates who may be struggling, while simultaneously providing valuable experience that can significantly boost their professional and personal development.
Graduation
My journey through graduate studies in digital marketing culminated in an extraordinary and deeply emotional milestone. As I walked across the graduation stage, a profound sense of accomplishment and joy washed over me, representing years of dedicated hard work, personal growth, and academic perseverance. The pinnacle of this transformative experience was undoubtedly my graduation speech, a moment of immense personal pride that allowed me to share my story with my fellow graduates and my beloved parents. Seeing their proud faces in the audience as I spoke was incredibly moving. To my fellow graduates, I offer heartfelt congratulations.
Welcoming back students to campus
As the campus comes alive with the vibrant energy of returning students, there's an undeniable sense of excitement and potential brewing in the air. Each new academic year brings a fresh wave of opportunities, promising innovative campaigns, diverse student perspectives, and exciting challenges that will shape both individual and collective experiences. The 2025 academic year stands poised to be a remarkable journey of growth, learning, and transformation, with each student bringing their unique talents, and dreams to our academic community. Here's to pushing boundaries and creating memorable moments that will define this extraordinary year of academic exploration and personal development.
Refreshers – Network Events for Liberation Groups
Organising the upcoming events for our liberation groups has been an incredibly rewarding experience that has made me realize how diverse our campus community really is. By creating safe and welcoming spaces, we are empowering students from diverse backgrounds to connect with peers who share similar experiences and perspectives. These gatherings will give a sense of belonging, allowing participants to openly discuss challenges, celebrate their identities, and support one another's personal growth. The events have not only facilitated meaningful conversations on important social issues but have also helped build lasting friendships and support networks. Witnessing the positive impact on our students' well-being and seeing them gain confidence in expressing themselves has been truly inspiring. As we continue to host these events, we're committed to nurturing an inclusive environment where every student feels valued, heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
LGBTQ+ Month Preparation
The months of preparation have culminated in this final push, focusing on refining the event details and ensuring I can educate myself as well as help LGBTQ+ students find role models and community connections. Throughout this process, I've discovered many LGBTQ+ historical figures who have changed the future for generations to come, paving the way for greater acceptance and equality. This journey has deepened my understanding of the struggles and triumphs within queer history, providing valuable context for our current progress and the challenges that still lie ahead. By highlighting these diverse LGBTQ+ voices from the past, we're creating an event that not only celebrates our present community but also honors the rich tapestry of queer heritage that has shaped our path to this moment.
Digby Burns Night
I experienced the vibrant essence of Scottish traditions through an immersive journey of culinary and dance adventures. Trying Haggis for the first time was a bold step into authentic Scottish cuisine, offering a unique flavour that challenged my palate. Alongside Irene, the VP of Education, I attempted traditional Scottish dancing - a lively and intricate art form that quickly revealed my lack of natural dancing skills. While my dance moves might have been more comedic than graceful, the experience was incredibly enriching. The evening was a delightful blend of trying new foods, attempting traditional dances, and creating memorable moments that reinforced my appreciation for Scotland's rich and distinctive heritage. Ultimately, I realised that my talents might be better suited for writing about these experiences rather than performing them, but the joy of immersion and learning remained eminent.
As per usual, I will leave you with a quote that has stuck with me this month: "Wellness is a journey, not a destination."