Learn more about this month's Course Rep: Wania Ahmed (Psychology Senior Course Rep) and what they have done so far this year!
Why did you want to become a rep?
I wanted to make a positive impact that contributes to the university, to be actively involved with students and engage with the wider community.
Being a rep has allowed me to meet many people and feel more integrated at Royal Holloway. As a commuting student, I wanted to do more than simply attend lectures and go home, so this role has provided a valuable opportunity to get to know my cohort and build meaningful connections.
What have you done so far this year, and what are your plans for next term in the rep role?
So far, I have attended and contributed to the SSAMs and have provided support to first time reps. I have also reached out and made a group chat for second year reps to gather and share feedback. It’s also a great place to circulate information about events or updates people may have missed.
Next term I want to chair some of the SSAM meetings after having experienced them as an attendee this term and as a rep last year.
How do you see being a rep impacting your future?
Being a rep has been a good opportunity to build skills I wasn’t able to develop during school. Communication is a standard skill developed in the rep role, but it has also helped me improve my public speaking skills. In my first meeting I was very nervous, but as I have attended more SSAMs I have stepped more out of my comfort zone and grown as a person. This role has really helped further develop my confidence.
What's the best thing about being a rep?
What I enjoy most about being a rep is the strong sense of community it creates. It has given me the chance to connect with both staff and students in the department and feel truly involved in university life. I particularly value the process of gathering student feedback and seeing how it leads to real improvements in the department.
Reading through earlier SSAM records, even from a few years ago, has shown me that the concerns raised by students are taken seriously and lead to tangible change. It is reassuring to be part of a university that genuinely listens to its students and actively works to enhance their experience.