Bringing Us Together, One Student at a Time
Hello everyone! I’m Taha Tajamul, an international student from India who grew up in Qatar, and I’m excited to run for the position of International Student Representative. As someone who is new to Belfast and navigating the challenges of adjusting to a new city and course, I understand firsthand the concerns and anxieties that come with starting university far from home— whether it’s figuring out how to make new friends, navigating the bureaucracy of visas and formalities, or simply getting used to the moody weather! I’m standing for International Student Representative because I want to help make this transition smoother for all of us and foster a welcoming, inclusive community. Having been an active member of the student committee at my previous university, I understand the importance of creating such a community and advocating for student needs.
Vision: "A Home Away from Home"
Moving to a new country is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. My goal is to ensure that every international student feels connected, not just academically, but socially and personally.
Key Issues I Aim to Address:
- Social Integration: It can be difficult to find your people in a new country, and I understand how isolating it could feel.
- Extra Administrative Support: From navigating visa requirements to understanding university processes, international students often face additional hurdles.
- Mental Health and Well-being: Moving abroad can take a toll on our mental health, and sometimes we need extra support to feel settled and confident.
My Action Plan:
- Fostering Connections and Embracing Diversity:
- Promote cultural events and a 'Cultural Week' where students can celebrate and showcase their heritage through food, music, and arts.
- Host regular social events and cozy meetups, especially during Belfast’s rainy days, where students can share and learn about each other’s backgrounds.
- Smooth Onboarding Process:
- Distribute a comprehensive checklist via email a couple months before the semester starts, explaining the ins and outs of everything from visa regulations to registering for classes.
- Additional Mental Health Support:
- Establish "International Check-in Days" where students can share their experiences and struggles in a safe, open space.
Call to Action:
Vote for Taha Tajamul as your International Student Representative to help nurture a supportive, inclusive community where international students thrive. With my own experiences and passion for bringing people together, I’m committed to making everyone feel welcome and empowered. Let’s work together to build a home away from home. Your support can make it happen!