I’m standing for STEM Faculty Representative because I know what it feels like to sit there, stuck on something, wondering if you’re even on the right track and not knowing who to ask.
I’ve had moments during my studies where I’ve questioned whether I even belong in higher education. From the conversations I’ve had with other students, I know I’m not the only one.
For a lot of us, studying STEM at the Open University isn’t just about the content. It’s about balancing everything else at the same time. Work, family, health, life. And when things aren’t clear, or support feels hard to find, it can feel like you’re expected to figure it out on your own.
That’s what I want to change.
During my time as Wales Student Representative, I’ve focused on turning that into action. Students told me they felt isolated and wanted somewhere to connect, so I helped build the Wales Club into a regular, active space where students can ask questions, share experiences, and support each other. I also set up the Wales Student Panel and ran consultations to make sure student feedback doesn’t just get heard, but leads to real, visible outcomes.
What I’ve seen from that is simple but powerful. When students have somewhere to connect, everything changes. Confidence grows, engagement improves, and people feel like they belong.
That’s the approach I want to bring into STEM.
There are also bigger issues being discussed right now. Concerns around online invigilation, particularly around privacy, stress, and accessibility, and growing questions about how AI is being used in assessment and learning.
From the consultations I’ve been involved in, there are clear patterns. Some students value flexibility, others feel it creates new barriers. What matters is not choosing one side, but making sure those experiences are properly represented and actually reflected in how decisions are made.
For me, being a representative isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about making sure the right voices are in the room, clearly represented, and followed through.
If I’m elected, I’ll focus on three things.
Making it easier for students to connect, so no one feels like they’re studying in isolation.
Making support clearer, so you know where to go and what to expect.
And making sure your feedback leads to real, visible change, not just conversations.
I’m not standing to just attend meetings. I’m standing to listen, take responsibility, and make sure students can actually see the difference their voice makes.
Because STEM is challenging enough already.
No one should have to figure everything out alone.
Good Luck!