Hi, I'm Zoe. I came to Keele in 2022 to study Biochemistry and Neuroscience. For those of the more mathematically astute, that means I have not yet finished my degree and will be continuing my studies after carrying out my Wellbeing role.
Last year I was working as a Casual Centre Assistant in the Sports Centre, as well as secretary of Boatclub (both places full of lovely people).
Outside of my role I love to go to the gym; I am a qualified PT and have chosen to specialise in powerlifting at the start of this year, approaching 3 years of gym experience. I am a prime advocate of getting people to actually enjoy fitness and the immense consequential effects this has on people’s wellbeing.
I also enjoy reading, playing bass and drinking tea in local coffee shops.
Priorities:
- Battling student loneliness with more student-focused, interconnected services and genuine communication between the University and our SU services.
- Reviewing how student data is collected and used within the University. Utilising this data as evidence to lobby the University for change in University spaces and how students can use them.
- Promoting more visibility and awareness of the Officer team to students and what we do.
I love Keele because (surprise) the people in it are lovely, and I thoroughly appreciate the connections I have made. As well as (again, surprise) the nature and green campus, especially during springtime.
What advice would you give to students this year?
Getting one minute of sunshine can sometimes flip a bad day around. Also, never listen to sad music when you feel bad, it never ends well.
Talk to me about:
- Where to go in the University for support (whether personal, financial or otherwise)
- Difficulties experienced with the services provided by the University or Keele Students’ Union (Ie. Student Services, ASK or other supporting staff)
- Accessibility issues on campus
- If you feel that Keele is unsafe in any capacity
- How to make Keele more inclusive, diverse and equitable environment for students
- Tackling structural discrimination within the University (BAME, women, Disabled and LGBTQ+ students)
Posted on Wed 30 Oct 2024 at 15:48
Spaces review
As part of my manifesto, I committed to creating cosier, more inclusive spaces at Keele. I am currently collaborating with Camerados, a National Lottery-funded charity who is providing free resources, to explore ways of fostering environments where students can relax without the pressures of studying or spending money. Additionally, I am preparing an application for 2024/25 Community funding from Staffordshire County Councillors to develop a more neurodivergent-friendly space within the Students’ Union.
Student Services Student Panel:
Successfully liaised with the Head of Student Services to increase the student voice within our Student Services via the creation of a panel which consists purely of students and respective service users.
Accessibility:
I have successfully consulted Estates on the implementation of a ramp on the Sustainability Bungalow, and they have agreed to increase wheelchair access via these ramps.
World Mental Health Day:
To enhance fitness accessibility and encourage student participation despite financial barriers, I worked with the 'Operations and Active Lifestyles' Manager to offer free full-day access to the Sports Centre, fitness classes, Active Keele, and the gym on World Mental Health Day. Manned a "Share a self-care tip" stall which entered students into the chance to win a £25 self care hamper
Early Arrivals:
Agreement from the Head of Student Services to look into and investigate the removal of the £40 extra accommodation charge for the 2-day early arrival students with disability.