Candidates

I believe my strong communication skills, problem-solving ability, and empathy make me well-suited for the role of postgraduate trustee. Having experienced taught and research PG degrees, I am familiar with the challenges students face, whether financial, wellbeing-related, or academic. Working within the Undeb in academic and liberation volunteer officer roles mean I have developed a deep understanding of the issues affecting students and am eager to ensure postgraduate students are well-represented to university staff. Additionally, my problem-solving skills and strategic thinking will help create solutions that benefit the entire postgraduate community, ensuring that PG students have the best experience possible. I am excited to advocate for the postgraduate community, working closely with the university to address their needs and ensure their voices are heard. I am dedicated to making a positive impact and fostering a supportive environment for postgraduate students at the university.

Mental health and wellbeing - I want to ensure that PG students feel that we are adequately supported by wellbeing services at the university and that staff understand the importance of ensuring that students can easily access these services and resources.

Financial concerns - Being a PG student is expensive! I believe that we should know how to access crucial financial support, have workshops and information available on approaching relevant funding, and ensure that staff know how to approach and signpost students when they face issues like high rents, low incomes, and potential associated course costs.

Postgraduate inclusion - PG students can often feel like an afterthought in the grand scheme of university spending, planning, and inclusion, and believe that staff need to consider the implications of decisions on all student groups, particularly within the current financial state of UK universities.

Put your trust in Tristan for a proactive and enthusiastic PG representation as PG Trustee!

1. The SU currently fails to recognise the sacrifices made by 35th U.S. President John F. Kennedy. If elected I promise to designated November 22nd as Kennedy memorial day, and force the University to lower all flags to half-mast on that day.

2.  Lack of participation in democratic processes. As I see it more can, and should, be done to encourage democratic participation in the affairs of the Students Union by more students. (Can you honestly say that any of the other candidates made a serious attempt to get Barack H. Obama to come and give a speech on participating in democracy?, and that was my FIRST thought.)

3. KEEPING THE LIBRARY OPEN AT ALL COSTS.

In your heart, you know I'm right.

I am personable and chatty with everyone I meet, making them feel heard and able to express any concerns they may have. I am empathetic and a good problem solver so when people need help I am always there to try solve the issue or direct to the correct person to help. I am already heavily involved with the Undeb through volunteering and clubs so feel the choice to be President is the right one for me to help represent the students of Aberystwyth.

Improve Awareness and Student Support to help overcome barriers faced by students in their time at University. Enhancing Student Employability through Society and Sports Club engagement to develop personal skillsets and build a sense of community in university Strengthen the Student Voice to ensure all students feel heard.

I have been serving as the Academic Affairs Officer since July 2024. During my tenure in the office, I have identified various challenges impacting the general student population. I intend to leverage the skills and, more importantly, the knowledge I have accumulated in my first year to advocate for student rights. I am fully prepared to undertake the responsibilities associated with the role of Sabbatical Officer, as I have a solid understanding of how both the University and the Student Union operate. This experience will enable me to drive effective change more successfully than individuals with less familiarity. Having lived in Aberystwyth for five years, I have a deep understanding of the issues that affect students. I am confident in my ability to address large audiences, as demonstrated in my participation in forums and freshers' events. I am committed to making the changes that you seek.

1. Students are routinely given poor quality accommodation and told it is their fault for the lack of quality. House ridden with mould? Just open a window! House is drafty and cold? Just dress warmer! We should not be subjected to these conditions any longer! I aim to hold landlords accountable for the squalor they put us in. 2. As if it wasn't obvious, there is much financial loss across the higher education sector. This is highlighted by the recent cuts surrounding the library open hours, job losses, and the Universities financial report being published. Since changes are coming, whether we like them or not, I will strive to ensure that the University is honest and transparent in its decisions. 3. Aberystwyth is a unique place with unique students. We need to ensure that the University keeps up to date with the needs of their students, both educationally and generally

1. Students are not receiving the full potential of university services. I will champion a mutually cooperative relationship between Undeb Aber, Student Services, and ResLife to create a more well-rounded support network for students. 

2. Liberation groups and Volunteer Officers are facing barriers to communication and aid from the SU. I will better support Volunteer Officers and liberation groups in engaging with Undeb Aber events and services. 

3. Some diverse and unique student challenges are being under-represented in staff training and guidance. This training and guidance can also be underutilised and outdated. I will ensure that university departments are more diversely accommodating, including trauma awareness, mental health, and disability.

Vote Alex for wellbeing more balanced!

From my experience and listening to stories of others, top 3 issues affecting students are: - not knowing how to cope with stress and overthinking; feeling lack of gatherings that could bring people together and teach everyday life skills - not being sure of budgeting skills and financing in general - housing and feeling comfortable and being confident with bringing up problems to landlords and not knowing the rights (tenants and landlords)

I think that there are a range of issues that students face but one that I believe is key to their wellbeing is the lack if information available surrounding healthy eating and how to feed themselves when they are on their own for the first time in their life. Alongside this I think that students are less aware of the things available to them and this leads to them not utilising things that could enhance their wellbeing. Finally i think students from marginalised communities need more access to community building through events run such as those throughout LGBT history month.

Live Well Vote LIv - if you vote me into this role i will do my best to make sure that the wellbeing of students is prioritised in the university

Stronger, More Inclusive Community I will ensure open communication between the SU, Volunteer Officers, and societies, giving everyone a voice and tracking feedback transparently. I aim to introduce a ‘Second Opinion’ scheme to ensure your requests are seriously considered. I’ll push for events like Super Teams, Varsity, and Aber Challenge to promote socialising, wellbeing, and new interests. Collaboration between societies will strengthen our community! Environmental Wellbeing I’ll work with climate activists and societies to organise initiatives like bee hotels, upcycling, and volunteering to give back to our environment. I’ll advocate for updated environmental policies and ensure students have a platform to voice their concerns. By strengthening ties with external organisations, we can create lasting change for a greener, healthier Aberystwyth! Employability & Economic Empowerment I will advocate for more professional development opportunities, including Life Long Learning, first aid training, paid internships, and Aber Award certificates. Also as a disabled student, I’ll push for better access to workplace support and equal opportunities for all to thrive!

Vote Miya Davies and Bee the Change You Want to See: Unite for Stronger Community, Employment Empowerment, and a Greener Aberystwyth!

The cost-of-living crisis remains one of the most difficult hurdles in Higher Education. Students often have to keep up with the demands of paying rent, effective budgeting and accessing food and clothing alongside their already demanding academic workload. This pressure can easily affect their assignments/assessments because they are preoccupied with their means of survival.

Safeguarding mental health is another issue which seems to impact the day-to-day interactions of a student with their peers and lecturers because a failure to keep up with tuition payments (especially for self-funded students) can affect their motivation and capacity to collaborate with others on group projects and socialise with new groups of students through societies, sports and volunteering activities.

International student support and their integration into the university societies and sports remain a challenge. The international student community grows each year which means more conversations on how to improve integration of cultures within the university.

one major issue students struggle with is mental health issues 7.8% of students in the UK felt lonely in 2024 and a whopping 69% also struggled with mental health issues when learning these statistics I knew this role would be perfect for me to help get more students invested in opportunities around the university.

Another major issue I think students are facing is not making friends and hiding away 21% of students struggle making friends but through making more opportunities for these students to feel more free and comfortable maybe we can help make these students make true friendships that could last for a long time.

The last issue I think students struggle with is Academic pressure I think it's important to focus on doing work but also picking up a hobby or interest and I think maybe there isn't enough opportunities for students to pick up these hobbies in universities so through there not being enough opportunities in universities students over work themselves so by adding and creating more opportunities for students it will help lower that feeling of Academic Pressures.

Students should vote for me because I will always to fight to give the students of Aberystwyth university to have fair and equal opportunities

Communication between the SU and societies/clubs

Availability of resources and the current inflation crisis

Support for societies with well-being and the balance of work and hobbies

Students should vote for me because I am a voice for them. I will be on their side, advocating for their issues.

Leadership

During my time at university, I have held multiple committee roles. This past year, I had the honour of serving as president of both a society and a sports club—two very different spheres that require distinct leadership skills. In both roles, I have been integral in organizing events such as fresher's fair stalls, socials, and concerts. These responsibilities necessitate a clear vision and the ability to guide others to achieve their best.

Communication

Communication is key to a role like this. My time as a committee member has proven to me the importance of not just speaking but actively listening. True communication requires mastering both these skills.

Passion

I am passionate to represent Student’s interests. Your interests would guide my work as Opportunities Officer. I aim to represent the interests of both societies and sports clubs. Together we can solve the problems that face us!

· Inter-Soc communication. When societies and clubs come together, great things can happen! By promoting inter-soc dialogue, we can create more fun events and opportunities for all, encouraging people to try new things and meet more of the amazing people at our University!

· Sports Facilities. Previous SU officers have made good progress when it comes to improving sport’s facilities, but we must keep the pressure on. I will achieve this by working to encourage dialogue with the assorted stakeholders to achieve a common victory that does not just benefits students, but also local people!

· Music facilities. Music is an integral part of many people’s mental health. As Opportunities Officer, I would look to expand the availability of equipment and practice rooms to help Music thrive in Aberystwyth.

Howe Can We Make a Difference? Together!

According to me, the top three issues students often face are:

Mental health struggles: Juggling academics, personal life, and future worries can be overwhelming, leading to stress, anxiety, and sometimes burnout.

Money worries: With rising living costs and tuition fees, many students struggle to make ends meet, which can affect their focus and overall experience.

Academic pressure: Managing heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and sometimes part-time jobs can leave students feeling stretched and exhausted.

Vote for me to amplify your voice! Passionate, approachable, and driven to tackle mental health, finances, and academic stress—your needs come first:)

Having a passion for connecting students to their interests, I will be a strong advocate for students who feel like they are not seen. I want to contribute to the overall student experience. I want everyone to enjoy Aber as much as I have in the last three years. Having a voice for people who think they don’t have their own.

I am an eclectic individual who is still learning to be themselves, but I am proud of myself for who I am. A role like Opportunities officer needs someone who is comfortable and passionate, someone like me.

A big issue for students at this moment is that they feel alone. Mental health affects us all, speaking up is a hard thing to do. Students need to be heard and seen- and know it.  We need to talk about Student Voice, mental health, and diversity.

Music and arts Societies need a voice as well as the smaller socs but making sure sports and bigger societies are still shown. We are all equal at the end of the day, but also individual. So, I want to enhance the society experience for every member of the university.

Some students find that they are not represented in the way they need for their life at the university. Working alongside academic affairs making sure the whole student experience is fair and accessible to all, the underrepresented cohorts.

You should vote for someone who is confident with themselves and someone who wants the best for all. The best for every student.  Mott for More Good.

Having been a student rep for 4 years now, I have plenty of experience collecting and delivering feedback. I’m currently student chair of my department’s SSCC, so I know how to be effective in meetings. I’m creative - having come up with solutions to problems brought by students, which have then been implemented by the department, including an increase in academic support for first and foundation years. I am confident in front of groups - having delivered a series of welcome talks to new students last semester. I’m punctual and have never missed a SSCC meeting, and I work well with others, having worked alongside other reps for years. I am dedicated to ensuring all students are represented, whether they be neurodivergent, queer, disabled, BAME or anything else. I’m queer and neurodivergent, and have a genuine passion for making your university life the best it can be.

Abi will advocate for you as academic affairs officer!

Communication with Academic Reps: Academic Reps can be of great help, but sometimes it is hard to get engagement. As someone who has been on both sides, as a student it is sometimes hard to get a hold of your academic rep and as an academic rep it can be just as hard to get students to engage. University Basics: As an international student even though I researched a lot before moving to the UK, I had a hard time understanding how British Universities worked. For example, the grading system and what kind of grades one should aspire for. On top of struggles like home sickness and cultural shock, this is an added stress factor. Study Support: Adjusting to the academic side of university life can be daunting. Every student in the beginning of their academic journey experiences a period of adaptation, and it can be lonely and discouraging.

I will work hard so every student’s experience in Aberystwyth is as wonderful as mine has been. University should be a fun time full of learning.

My three main themes:

• Increase neurodiversity support and make it easier for the undiagnosed to get support from the uni.
• Bring back 24/7 library hours
• Advocate for the international student voice and make sure that they feel heard.

A Vote for Lorraine is a Vote for All!

Since arriving in Aberystwyth in 2022, I have treasured the valuable role of UMCA and Welsh culture. While my studies have taught me about the academic value of Welsh culture, my personal and social experiences outside of lectures have taught me the true importance of the presence of the Welsh language and Welsh language culture to the experiences of hundreds of students at Aberystwyth.

In addition to gaining an appreciation for my own experiences, I've come to know UMCA members and their needs over the years not only from my role as UMCA Chair, but also through the valuable experiences and events UMCA offers. I have also learnt about UMCA's relationship with learners as Second Language Officer and sought to develop the use of Welsh within the Union as a UMCA representative on the Undeb Senedd.

One of the most familiar problems for us is the cost of living crisis affecting our personal lives, as well as the wider university – whether funding university departments or the wider Union and university structures. This is a problem that directly affected UMCA students in the wake of threats to the UMCA President's role as a full-time position.

Born of this problem, another of the most important issues is student voice. In a democratic Union that is representative of all its students, it is important that students feel that their views as students are heard and understood.

The final, and more personal issue for me, as a current student studying and living entirely through the medium of Welsh, is the provision of Welsh-medium education and in particular, Welsh-medium modules. There must be opportunities for students to thrive academically to ensure a prosperous future for themselves but also for the Welsh language in Wales.

Insist that Nanw is next to have a strong voice for the Welsh language and ensure that Welsh language rights and UMCA are protected in the future.

I was chair this year and I had a lot of fun and I would like to continue. I think I’ve done a good job this year and I would like to continue.

Cost of living, various cuts across the uni and tuition fees

Trust the plan, vote for Fran

Cost of living is a huge issue for most students, which subsequently impacts student physical and mental health, as well as issues relevant to this role such as sustainable and ethical consumerism

I am experienced, knowledgeable, and committed to making positive change!

We have seen the effect of living costs on important necessary institutions, like universities. As an UMCA member, I saw the potential effect of the cuts here as a threat to the University’s Welsh community. Also, the effect of financial pressures on students can lead to huge concerns. Students must be aware that they aren’t on their own and so I will be voicing the concerns of students on their financial ability to continue their education.

I will try to improve the provision for Welsh medium students. If the University has promised the provision to study in Welsh, then they should keep to their word, and hold themselves accountable. The University should follow the standards of the Welsh Language Commissioner. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to be bilingual.

The government has given free transport to adults over 60 because of the awareness of pensioners’ financial worries. The principle is the same for students who live with financial constraints.

I will prioritise the well-being of students and hold the University accountable. I’m an active, conscious person and passionate about justice.

Financing their education.

Lack of easy access to mental health services

Transitioning to the workforce post graduation.

If elected I am able to represent the concerns and issues faced by students of various backgrounds (Mature, International, Asian, LGBTQIA+).

I am an empathetic and proactive individual, passionate about fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for postgraduate students. I am an excellent communicator, able to listen actively and represent diverse perspectives, ensuring every student feels heard and valued. My adaptability and resilience help me navigate challenges, while my collaborative nature enables me to work effectively with peers, faculty, and university staff. I am committed to promoting student well-being, facilitating enriching academic and social experiences, and building a vibrant, connected postgraduate community. With my dedication, strategic mindset, and enthusiasm, I am ready to make a meaningful impact as a postgraduate student officer.

Managing finances is a common concern among students in Aberystwyth, tuition fees, paying for their accommodation costs, and daily living expenses/budget. The university has an Advice and Money Team that  provides guidance and support to help students fight these challenges. 

Difficulties related to their courses, assignments struggles, disabilities and health issues.

The University is committed to support students facing these issues.

Adapting to the new environment and adjusting to university life can also be of the issues. Feeling lonely, unhappy or stressed especially those far away from home.

The university provides a range support for them and let them know they're in a safe place and outstanding environments.

Vote for me to bring creativity, leadership, and passion to your student experience. I’ll listen, advocate, and build a supportive, vibrant community!

Events for the minority, I know there are societies that host these events but I believe they should be hosted for the entire population of aber uni student so that more people can become open-minded and respectful to different cultures. I do not know about other students but I did feel lonely when I first came to the university because this is like a new world for me and I definitely know for sure there are, maybe not all but, some student who feel the same way as me. Last thing is the financial pressure, we all know international students pay double what the British citizens pay and some have to work multiple jobs just to pay off their tuition fees

I know how it feels to be an 'outsider' here, I will fight for more opportunities and support for international students

As a Welsh, disabled, queer, and trans person I’m deeply passionate about queer and transgender rights and quality of life; especially for students who need to connect with one another. I try to facilitate that connection wherever I can, and as the LGBTQ Officer I pledge to provide these opportunities to new and returning students.

And as someone who takes pride in their community, I hope that I’ll be able to work with other queer and trans people in Aberystwyth to develop a safer and more outspoken community.

Issues that face students today are of course rising tuitions and costs, a decline of resources, and isolation. The hardships of finding community during a vulnerable period where we as queer people only become more and more vulnerable is something I feel has to be addressed with compassion. Rising costs, lack of resources, and isolation all go hand in hand at the detriment of students and everyone else, which is why I believe it is more necessary than ever to be committed to building community and supporting one another.

I believe that it is more important than ever that we as queer people work together and develop our community with passion to foster supportive spaces

I think that there are a range of issues facing students but lack of community is one of the key ones that worries me. As well as this liberation groups may require more effort in highlighting their activities as I think many students just are not aware of what the SU is doing that might interest them. Similar to this I think increased awareness of the resources available for struggling students would help significantly.

Live Well Vote Liv - I have loved my year as women's officer and would love to continue working within the SU to make women feel safe and seen.

Natasha Goodwin

I think students need more support getting adjusted, the university does do a good job at this but going from living with parents full-time and having a very structured life to being independent and having to live by yourself can be daunting for people, there should be more opportunities outside of societies to make friends and find people who can make life easier after moving.

A big issue for university students is exam stress/anxiety. University exams and assignments are different than what the majority of the students will have experienced previously in their education and while lecturers have offered some help and there are some guides online it doesn't help students as best as it could. There needs to be more efficient and effective ways of helping students overcome exam anxiety and offering the support needed.

Overall well-being support, outside of the student support service there isn't much talk about mental health and it can have a massive impact on students. There should be more awareness around the subject.

As two people who have our own different disabilities, we have independently faced many challenges in our university life. From struggling with student support to wrangling extra time or facing off departments on exam preparations, we know the difficulties disabled students face because we live those difficulties. Elect us to have a representative and engaged set of disability officers.

We both also have experiences with supporting and advocation for people with disabilities outside of universities.

Our five key policies:

1. Ensure campus is accessible to all regardless of disability or impairment, increase awareness for accessible spaces and routes around campus and that they are maintained

2. Improved relationship with support services, ensuring that students get the support they need

3. More information for those with disabilities in and out of the lecture hall to help them get to grips with university life, such as accessible route maps or disability-friendly nights out.

4. To be a constant source of aid, offering advice and fighting for disabled students to get the aid they deserve.

5. To make sure everyone has an equal voice and can speak out and be heard

Different Disabilities, Different Experiences, Same Goals

I think it's complicated, students aren't a monolith. In this economic climate many students struggle financially, living off of a diet that's lacking in most vegetables and vitamins because often it isn't seen as worth it to buy expensive produce that will go off in a few days. A sense of belonging is another issue, many students lack confidence in their abilities and convince themselves they do not deserve to be here, this is an issue that especially thrives in disabled students, leading to so many dropping out and not realising their potential. Another is loneliness. With so many societies having a strong focus on drinking which many don't or cannot do, as well as a variety of other factors, many students feel alone and aren't able to find their people which can lead to mental health issues and academic instability.

With every fibre of my being I want to help people, I know too well how it feels to be ostracised.

Trans and gender non-conforming students have not been given an adequate amount of attention or care from the university, hence why we pledge to ensure there is a reliable, vibrant safe haven for all queer students. As of now there is simply not enough support for transgender and gender non-conforming students. - lack of university support: e.g. students not having wellbeing services signposted early enough in their university journey. - lack of visible community outreach: e.g. no social media, lack of advertisement for events. - not having places to go during the evening which do not necessarily involve drinking, to fight against isolation (including during the evenings, weekends and holidays). - Extending the support of existing gender-inclusive campaigns e.g. aiming to provide period products in cubicles, and in every toilet facility across Aberystwyth campuses.

To foster a stronger, more supportive, outspoken and safe trans and GNC community.

Personally, I believe the top 3 issues affecting specifically transgender students are:

A lack of advice regarding transitioning. I would like to ensure clearer advice and support are available, such as how to complete a legal name change both on and off campus, where to begin the process of seeking HRT or gender-affirming surgeries, support in coming out, etc.

Seeking employment as a Trans/GNC individual can be tough, I would like to communicate with the careers service to encourage them to open up a more transgender-friendly path, encouraging information on transitioning in the workplace, ensuring confirmation that a workplace is trans-friendly, etc.

Social isolation is a big issue for transgender individuals, especially those who have just moved away from their support network. I would like to offer a more accessible network for those struggling to know that there are many people at the university just like them.

I will offer a strong platform for transgender student's voices to be heard loud and clear. We all need to uplift each other in the current climate

I am an incredibly passionate and a inquisitive individual, that will fight for what I believe in. As an Independent student myself I understand the struggles students face when attending the university. I believe that independent students are at a far greater disadvantage than non-Independent students, and I hope to bridge that gap.

 Securing all year round housing: I feel this is a particularly strong issue especially when surrounding Private Housing tenancies. I believe there should be more advertisement about Summer Accommodation and other preliminary actions to support students in having year-round accommodation.

 Support and guidance for additional responsibilities Independent students have: A lot of Independent students feel isolated when it comes to talking about their caring responsibilities and other issues they have in their personal lives. For my campaign I will look at setting up some sort of group where individuals can talk through issues and gain help and advice.

Financial support: I believe it is crucial for there to be more support for this sector of student. I believe more advisement should be done to highlight bursaries which students can look into and guarantor information for students who do not have a guarantor.

Last year I ran as the Undeb's Independent officer, where I investigated many problems that Independent students face, this year I hope to do the same

Lack of engagement with reps, allowing issues to go unknown.

Budget cuts resulting in withdrawal of modules and entire degree schemes

2 assessments per module structure, putting a lot of pressure on each assignment.

Mental health support/resources - Due to the high stress of the degrees presented in science I believe students are more prone to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

University to work transition - Due to being a small town there are limited opportunities for students to find relevant work after completing their degree.

Work-life balance - Especially around exam season there can be a struggle to find a good work-life balance which can lead to burnout and other metal issues as mentioned above.

I will ensure every concern is heard by faculty of relevant departments and that every student feels they belong on their courses.

The top three issues affecting students are financial pressures, mental health challenges, and academic stress. Many students struggle with the rising cost of tuition, rent, and living expenses, often balancing multiple jobs alongside their studies—I have personally experienced this challenge. Mental health struggles are also a major concern, with many facing stress, anxiety, and isolation. Long waiting times for university support services and the stigma around seeking help can make accessing mental health resources even harder. Academic stress is another key issue, with high workloads, tight deadlines, and pressure to succeed impacting student well-being. Balancing studies, work, and personal life can be overwhelming, leading to burnout. Addressing these challenges requires improved financial support, better access to mental health resources, and academic policies that prioritise student well-being, flexibility, and success in a supportive learning environment.

I’ll amplify student voices, push for better support, and work to create a more inclusive, supportive, and successful university experience for all.

Access to academic support is the main issue since many students are unaware of resources such as AberSkills. Many students are also unaware of subject librarians, for example. Quality of feedback and teaching is another key issue. Students feel that teaching varies between lecturers and marks are given inconsistently. Exams and assignments are another area of concern since there can be issues with clarity especially when the format changes at the last minute. As the faculty of humanities officer, I would like to look into these issues with staff and students to bring about any necessary changes.

As an academic rep, I’ve helped address student feedback and advocate for needs. I want to do this on a larger scale to improve student experience.