Anna McDermott – Postgraduate School Rep - School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics (SHAPP)
I am a passionate student currently working towards my Masters in Philosophy. I am committed to enhancing the academic and professional experiences of postgraduate students. My experience as the current Events Coordinator for the British Postgraduate Philosophy Association (BPPA) and my background in philosophical research, teaching, and event facilitation drive my desire to serve and represent students and their ideas as this year's Postgraduate School Rep for HAPP.
My Experience and Vision
Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently sought to advance philosophical education beyond the traditional classroom. From teaching philosophy to primary school students, to organising high school-level ethics information days and to organising national philosophy conferences and seminar series. My work has been primarily concerned with making philosophy accessible, engaging, and relevant to all. As the current BPPA Events Coordinator, I have experience in: organising conferences, workshops, and reading groups; bureaucratic work, such as reviewing abstracts, formalising submissions, and communicating with lecturers and students across the UK and Ireland. Ultimately, I strive to foster a thriving community of academic engagement both in Queen’s and further afield.
My vision for postgraduate students at HAPP is to create an inclusive and supportive network whereby all students can flourish academically, socially, and mentally. I want to ensure that students of HAPP can have great academic experiences and success, as well as providing a space to share their ideas in an encouraging, confidence building setting.
Key Priorities for Students:
-
Frequent Academic Skills Training
Postgraduate students deserve regular and accessible skills training courses. These will range from research writing workshops to practical sessions on teaching/facilitation, with the aim of equipping students with essential tools for academic success. I am committed to organising regular training sessions that cater to students' varying needs and schedules.
-
Access to Seminars, Conferences, and Research Opportunities
I will work to ensure that all students have access to opportunities such as seminar series, academic conferences, and teaching or research positions. I believe that these experiences are invaluable for personal and professional growth and I will actively advocate for these opportunities to be made more widely available. All students should have the opportunity to be heard and to actively contribute to the academic community. I will advocate for the creation of platforms that empower students to share their work amongst peers and colleagues.
-
Networking and Collaboration
Postgraduate students deserve more opportunities to connect with peers, academics, and professionals both nationally and internationally. I aim to organise networking events and establish a platform where students can engage with key figures in their field, fostering collaboration and broadening academic horizons.
-
Mental Health and Well-being
The mental health of students is of top priority. I recognize the importance of supporting students academically, mentally, and socially. Every student should feel supported and valued in their academic community. I will push for initiatives that ensure proper support systems are in place to help students manage stress, workload, and emotional challenges all semester long. This includes providing resources, hosting workshops, and advocating for student mental health services on a regular basis. I will ensure that there is time and space allocated each semester to the mental and physical wellbeing of students.
-
Inclusivity for Women, Ethnic Minorities, and LGBTQ+ Students
I am deeply committed to promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all students, particularly those who are often underrepresented in academia. I will ensure that their voices are heard, and that they are provided with the opportunities and platforms they deserve.
Why Vote for Me?
The reason I am the most viable candidate for this position is I have first hand experience with the challenges and needs of students in HAPP. Several of the priorities above stem from things I personally wanted enacted as a student. These were further developed through conversations with my peers, who are also students of HAPP. My background in facilitation, research, and event organisation, uniquely equips me to advocate for your needs and, more importantly, deliver the opportunities you deserve. I will work tirelessly to ensure that postgraduate students have the resources, support, and voice needed to succeed.
Vote Anna McDermott for Postgraduate School Rep - School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics (SHAPP).