My name is Ceri Jones, and I am running for Academic Vice President within the Student Union at the University of Wolverhampton.
I am part of the School of Pharmacy, undertaking a Masters. With my career goal being that of industry and research, such as creating new vaccines and other scientific breakthroughs! On top of this, I am a mature student and a former commissioned officer. These experiences alone made me push myself for this position.
As a former BTEC candidate, I feel strongly about ensuring everybody has the right to a higher education. I want to further educate potential students that you do not require outstanding A Levels in many cases, and that you are never too old to start your University journey.
The most important aim I will bring immediately into practice is that of a NO DETRIMENT POLICY.
The last 2 academic years have been hard on all students, may you be a first year within a foundation course or about to complete a post graduate diploma. Yet, often we are told:
Please be patient with your lecturers, during these unprecedented times.
Well, what about us? Why are we expected to provide an equal or higher standard of work compared to previous years?
Our academic experience is not the same. Yet, the volume of work and timescales have if not increased across all courses. This should not be accepted.
My position prior to commencing my degree was that of a vocational student. I was not a great A Level candidate, and subsequently failed them.
I want to bring further support for all students whatever your entrance qualifications are. The transition needs to be eased into formal academia. This is achievable by creating study skill sessions, student-led study groups and even further support from faculty members.
It is hard to stand there and admit you are struggling; I can’t count how many times I have felt like that. Subsequently, you don’t always want to book a SAMS appointment to discuss these concerns. But, having support that checks in with you, even when you may not need it, will alleviate any such pressures and ensure not a single student is left behind.
As like many other candidates, I will put forward a movement to create a 24/7 Mental Health Support Line, for all students and staff.
As well as the above, if I am elected, I will ensure the consistency of live lectures being recorded and that the timetabling department make changes promptly when there is an error.
Many of us are parents, have jobs, have caring a responsibility or suffer with a type of medical condition. When commencing your course, if needed, you are given a Tutor Awareness Sheet which stipulates the conditions you need to work at your full potential. Often, these conditions are missed. As the Academic Vice President, I would be pursuing that these are recognised and adhered to, consistently.
With blended and online learning continuing, it is also necessary to look at our facilities that impact or academic learning. Internet connection and sources need to be assessed and improved on all University accommodation and campuses.
Parking permits need to be explored in all areas, for students travelling a relative distance to and from University.
The first year bursary you can receive for travel, needs to be extended to wider areas such as Shropshire or London connections, even that of Transport for Wales. Not just the Midlands.
The final but not the last point I want to raise within my campaign, is that of our academic career throughout our time at the University of Wolverhampton.
All faculties should be given the responsibility to support students into work. This can be done by CV workshops, application support and more. Relatively small changes that could make a huge impact to our working life.
We need more in-depth career advice; we have the right to know exactly what we can accomplish with our degree.
Further work experience or placement opportunities need to be given to all subjects.
The above is what I believe is priority and what needs to be changed by the end of this academic year.
If you choose me as you’re Academic VP, I promise to listen and act on any issues.
We all have the right for a fair and equal education.
To learn more about my campaign, keep an eye on www.wolvesunion.org or you can contact me directly via the Outlook address system.
