About
Hi, I’m Umna, an MSc Applied Clinical Psychology student originally from Delhi, India. My journey into psychology has been shaped by a quiet commitment to understanding people, listening deeply, and showing up where support is truly needed. During my undergraduate studies, I was elected President of the society club “Bridging Emotions,” where I worked closely with students navigating academic pressure, emotional distress, and the often unspoken challenges of university life. I focused on creating spaces that felt safe, inclusive, and genuinely supportive.
Alongside this, I served as an Event Host and Moderator, Class Representative, Student Coordinator, Panel Discussion Facilitator, and Workshop Organiser. Each role strengthened my ability to listen with empathy, translate concerns into meaningful action, and represent others with honesty and care. Leadership, for me, has never been about the spotlight, but about service and responsibility.
Now, as a candidate for Postgraduate International Officer, I hope to strengthen representation, build accessible wellbeing initiatives, and support smoother international integration within the Student Union. If elected, I will work with consistency, communicate transparently, and stand as your student voice with sincerity, accountability, and warmth.
Priorities
Should I be elected, my work will center on four clear priorities that reflect what postgraduate and international students consistently say they need.
First, I will advocate for a dedicated postgraduate space on campus. In conversations with Master’s and PhD students, one theme is constant: many do not feel they truly belong anywhere. Postgraduate study is intense and time-pressured. Taught postgraduates are here for only a year, while doctoral researchers often work independently for long periods. A professional yet welcoming space would provide more than desks; it would create community, connection, and collaboration. I will work closely with the University and Students’ Union to make this a meaningful and lasting change.
Second, I will strengthen academic representation by actively contributing to Senate, the Education Advisory Board, and the Doctoral Board of Studies, ensuring postgraduate and international voices shape decisions.
Third, I will build stronger support for international students, focusing on transition, integration, and clear communication of key processes.
Finally, I will prioritise accessible wellbeing and casework support, so every postgraduate feels heard, supported, and genuinely represented throughout their journey. My commitment is simple: to lead with empathy, act with integrity, and deliver practical outcomes that make daily student life better.
Reasons
I aspire to be an SU Officer because I am deeply concerned about the student wellbeing, student representation, and student growth. As a psychology major and a leader I know the need to provide safe and inclusive environments where all voices are heard. My experience of organizing events, team leadership and promoting mental health taught me how to put ideas into practice. I would like to mediate between students and administration, facilitate holistic development and make opportunities available to every student. My decision to become an SU Officer would help me to be an empathetic, initiative, and purposeful officer.
Fun Facts
What is your favourite meal deal?
Hoisin duck wrap, cheese and onion crisps, and canned latte coffee.
What is your favourite film?
My oxford year