Muhammad Haris

Introduction: Hello everyone! My name is Muhammad Haris, and I am running for the position of Postgraduate Representative on the Students' Union Council at Queen's University Belfast. As a postgraduate student, I understand the unique challenges that come with balancing rigorous academics, career development, and personal well-being. I am committed to being a proactive voice for all postgraduate students, ensuring that our needs and interests are front and center in the decisions made by the Students' Union.

Vision: My vision is to create a supportive, inclusive, and engaging community for postgraduate students. I want to ensure that all postgraduate voices are heard and represented, that our concerns are taken seriously, and that we have the opportunities and resources necessary to thrive both academically and socially.

Key Objectives:

1. Effective Representation and Advocacy:

   • Be a vocal advocate for postgraduate students on the Students' Union Council, ensuring that our unique perspectives and concerns are brought to the forefront.
   • Establish open and transparent channels for feedback, where students can share their concerns, suggestions, and ideas confidentially.
   • Work closely with other representatives to ensure that postgraduate-specific issues—such as funding, resources, and workload—are prioritized.

2. Enhancing Academic and Career Support:

   • Advocate for more tailored academic support services, including workshops and seminars that focus on research skills, academic writing, and professional development.
   • Push for better career services that address the needs of postgraduate students, including support for industry placements, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs.
   • Collaborate with the Graduate School to expand opportunities for skill-building that align with postgraduate students’ academic and career aspirations.

3. Well-being and Mental Health Support:

   • Advocate for increased access to mental health and well-being resources specifically designed to support postgraduate students who often face unique pressures, such as managing work-life balance and dealing with academic stress.
   • Promote initiatives that foster well-being, such as mindfulness workshops, peer support programs, and activities that encourage community and connection.

4. Community Building and Inclusivity:

   • Foster a sense of community among postgraduate students by organizing social events, networking sessions, and collaborative activities that bring together students from different programs.
   • Work to ensure that postgraduate students from all backgrounds feel included, valued, and represented.
   • Advocate for an inclusive and diverse campus culture where students of all identities, nationalities, and experiences are celebrated and respected.

5. Improving Campus Facilities and Resources:

   • Advocate for improved study spaces, library resources, and common areas that meet the needs of postgraduate students.
   • Work with the university to address any challenges related to access to facilities, including library hours, study rooms, and other resources that postgraduate students rely on.

6. Clear Communication and Transparency:

   • Ensure that postgraduate students are well-informed about university and Students' Union policies, events, and opportunities that impact them.
   • Use multiple communication channels, including social media, newsletters, and in-person forums, to keep students updated and to gather their input.
   • Be approachable and available to listen to students' concerns, ideas, and suggestions, and ensure these are communicated effectively to the council.

Conclusion: As your Postgraduate Representative, I am committed to making sure that the needs of postgraduate students are not just heard but acted upon. I am passionate about building a thriving community where every postgraduate student feels supported, connected, and empowered to succeed. Together, we can shape a university experience that is enriching, inclusive, and memorable for all.

I humbly ask for your support in this journey. Let’s work together to make a difference for all postgraduate students at Queen's University Belfast.

Thank you!