Western USC Elections 2017

What is your current year and program?

Year 3, Kinesiology.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

I am running for USC council this year to ensure even the little problems are heard. I believe the USC does a great job addressing the larger concerns on campus such as mental health and racism but I think it is vital to hear issues that may not have as large of a following.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

I believe my experience is well-versed in many aspects. On campus, I am currently involved with the Health Sciences Soph Team as an incoming Programming Assistant, The Purple Spur as Sports Coordinator, Generocksity as the Street Team Captain and various intramurals. Through these experiences I have met many students and created a vast network of people that care about Western. Being a part of the HS Soph team and Sports coordinator for Spur give me an inside edge for Kinesiology specific issues.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

Aforementioned, I believe the USC does a great job advocating for large issues on campus. I believe the biggest issue on campus is Stress and Mental Health. It is clear that many students need support regarding these issues and I believe it is the USC’s duty to provide this support. There have been great initiatives set forward such as the Wellness Education Centre but the support doesn’t have to stop here.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

I believe the biggest issue the USC faces is students not knowing what the USC is. It’s hard to understand what the USC does for students if they don’t learn from the beginning of their time here. Personally, I didn’t know there was a difference between Western University and the USC, I thought they were the same governing body until the end of my first year. I think this is an issue that can be solved from the start and the USC can focus more on fixing the issues instead of getting the word out about what the USC does.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

• Optional bus pass: Many Kinesiology students have no use for this as they walk or run just about everywhere. If they really need the bus to travel, they can spend the change that it costs to use it.
• Increased Mental Health services: Whether this be having counsellors in residences or more appointment times, the support needs to grow.
• Heightened awareness of was the USC does: Students need to know who the USC is and what they do to ensure they benefit from the best student experience.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

Through the various clubs I am a part of at Western. It is so easy to let one person know about what the USC is doing for students and let that person tell another. Keeping the USC in dialect on a daily basis will help students realize all of the amazing things the USC does for them.

What is your current year and program?

Year 1, Kinesiology.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

I am running for USC council this year because I see a lot of potential for change in the Faculty of Health Sciences. With over 3,000 people in our faculty, I want to ensure that each and every single student has the opportunity to benefit as much as they can from their student experience; whether through being involved in the key decisions made, or partaking in the various events set up by the council.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

Although I’m in First year, I believe I have enough past experience that has built me into an understanding, passionate and driven leader, which will help me improve the student experience for Kinesiology students. Some of these experiences include being an Executive member on student council and President of the Muslim Student Association at A.B Lucas Secondary School. Furthermore, as a member of the Nazem Kadri Foundation, I was part of a team that was able to raise over $400,000 for various charitable/non-profit organizations such as the Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada and the LHSC Children’s Hospital.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

The biggest issue on campus today is that various events and services across Western go unnoticed. Students constantly miss out on the valuable services put together by faculty staff and the USC because of a lack of marketing and advertising of the events. Furthermore, when these events are advertised, they are often held at an inconvenient time for most students, and they usually do not follow the same interests as most of the students in the designated faculty.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

I believe there is a major issue with the communication between the USC and its students. Many of the events held by the USC and its Faculty Councils (like this election) fly under the radar and only catch the eye of a few students. I believe that in order for students to benefit the most from their university, the council needs to do a better job of communicating with all students, ultimately resulting in more student participation and contribution.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

Three fundamental concepts that I look forward to implementing if elected are better student government communication, improving the quality and timing of events for Kinesiology students, and promoting the student voice as much as possible in order to give students as much control as possible when it comes to key decisions for their faculty.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

Although I am running for the Kinesiology representative position, I believe that a lot of the issues we as a faculty face today are common throughout the rest of Western. With over 20,000 students at Western, it is important to incorporate event planning and decision making through platforms that are available to all students. The goal of the USC is to serve all students and if elected, I will strive to include all students in important decision making through advertising on owl, the student center, and mass email recruitments.

What is your current year and program?

Year 1, Nursing

Why are you running for USC council this year?

I loved serving as a year rep for the WFNSA, and I see being a USC councilor as a way to advocate for my program within USC and also encourage students to advocate for USC issues.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

I was a first year representative this year with the WFNSA, and I loved every minute of it. I learned how to combine passion with leadership skills, and I feel ready to move onto the next chapter as nursing councilor.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

Definitely health and safety. Whether it be physical health and safety, or emotional/mental health and safety, I find it so critical that we take care of our students and faculty. The students and faculty are the foundation of this school, and by ignoring them, it would be like asking for a building without a foundation to stay standing – it just wouldn’t happen.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

As a council we need to stay transparent – we have a huge amount of power, and with that comes responsibility. We are the ones at the helm of executing major decisions for the student body, and if they can’t trust us as councilors/execs, then that is where the door opens for problems to begin.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

• Advocating for a proper fall reading week.
• Advocating for a more effective mental health resources (especially with the wait-times and limitations that students can experience during exams).
• Supporting the formation of a USC council that is based on accurately representing and benefitting the student populous.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

I would consistently keep students up-to date on USC events and ask students for feedback about current issues – I feel that the best way of engaging students with the USC is to keep the door open for their voices to be heard.

What is your current year and program?

Year 2, Medical Sciences

Why are you running for USC council this year?

The reason I’m running for USC council is very specific actually. I have always been very curious about the faculty of science donation fees and what the money is spent on exactly. I probed around for an answer - even got in touch with the Dean - but my search ended up futile. From this, I realized that there needs to be greater transparency and accountability, both of which I will address as a councillor.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

As a residence soph, I’ve learned how to directly engage students, actively listen to concerns, and facilitate conflict resolution. As a long-time debater, I bring a wealth of knowledge in addressing issues ranging from nationalizing pharmacare to using neonicotinoids as insecticides. I’ve previously worked with legislation in creating mock bills implementing programs such as a gradual taxation system. Lastly, I’ve worked in a research lab and understand the growing need for grants - especially for undergraduate science students. All these diverse experiences will make me an effective councillor in bringing forth issues as a liaison between the faculty and university.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

The biggest issue on campus, in my opinion, is the rising apathy towards student politics. Even in the current elections there have been many positions automatically acclaimed due to a lack of candidates. This presents a large problem as it shows a rising disconnect between the student body and their input on policies that directly affect them.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

Definitely the lack of engagement by the USC with the general student body. The USC is almost like a castle surrounded by a moat whose drawbridge opens during election time and closes once again until the next year. It needs to actively get in touch with students throughout the year, possibly by having town hall style meetings or directly asking for feedback on certain changes or programs.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

• Transparency: Making large financial decisions and policy changes available for student access.
• Accessibility: Allowing students to directly participate in changes proposed by the USC and their faculty through gathering feedback on issues through a referendum system.
• Development: Bring forth discussion geared towards career building through the creation of new incentives and grants as well as inviting various alumni, internship programs, and industries to encourage different paths after graduation.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

To encourage anybody to do anything, it is imperative to explain why it is beneficial for them to do so. As such, the first step to engaging the students at large with the USC is to show why the USC can be beneficial for them. This can be done through hosting town hall meetings throughout the year between the USC and the students where specific concerns may be brought up. Of course, social media is also a great platform to engage the students in order to make the USC relevant.

What is your current year and program?

Year 2, Medical Sciences.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

I am running for USC Science Councillor to represent you, the science students of Western. I want to maximize your student experience by ensuring that all your voices are heard. My campaign is not only about what I want to change or improve because I am just one student. As a Science Councillor, I want to work together and listen to your comments, questions and concerns so that I can discuss them with the USC and SSC to implement necessary changes or improvements.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

Over the past summers, I held an executive director position at a summer camp. It was my job to coordinate the camp councillor team and help in the planning of events. I went into this experience to help campers create new friendships and feel welcomed. I came out of this experience learning about what makes a team function efficiently–namely the importance of communication and cooperation. The skills I gained are valuable for the position of Science Councillor because being an effective communicator is vital while working alongside five other Councillors to represent the voice of the Science Community.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

As a USC Councillor candidate, I feel that the biggest issue on campus is that students are embarrassed to use mental health and wellness resources provided. There is still the fear of judgement, making it difficult for students to seek help. We need to work together to build a community of greater acceptance and encouragement to support mental health and wellness. The services provided around campus need to be revamped in order to make them more visible and accessible, allowing students to get the help they need when they need it.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

As a USC Councillor candidate, I feel that the biggest issue with the USC is the lack of awareness and engagement of students. The reports for USC are easily accessible online, however, most students are unaware of this. About $700 of our tuition goes towards the USC and student organizations. As students, it is important that we understand what our money is being spent on and what we benefit from paying this fee. Changes need to be made in order to improve the transparency of the USC.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

If elected as a USC Science Councillor, my top three tasks/initiatives would be to increase the transparency of the USC, keep the science community informed as to what is going on around them, and collaborate the USC and SSC with the various clubs and organizations around campus to provide greater services and opportunities for student involvement with mental health and wellness.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

If elected as a USC Councillor, I plan on engaging students at large with the USC by collaborating with a variety of clubs and organizations, to create events and greater opportunities for students to be involved. By participating in more events on campus, students are given a chance to meet people and build on relationships for the future. In order to facilitate a sense of community between the USC and students at large, I plan on seeking feedback and suggestions on events that students are interested to participate in.

What is your current year and program?

Year 2, Medical Sciences.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

I am running this year because I want to tap into the power of all science students. It is no longer acceptable for the voice of the students are drowned out by their own student council. The fact that only 20% of Western Students voted in the last election should be a huge wake up call to everyone; the USC is in desperate need to reform. I want to lead that effort, and I want to bring the students together to fight for that reform. Ultimately, I know that together we can make our school a better place.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

I have always been involved in student government. In high school, I was elected as the student council president among many of my other various roles. I am currently an Ontario Hall soph, and I have served on two different Residents’ Councils; first as a member of the DHRC and I am a current commissioner on the OHRC. In these positions, I not only fought for the interests of my constituents, but I also worked with my peers to get things done. I have the track record, I have the experience and I am ready to lead.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

The biggest problem I see on campus is the lack of discourse between students. Discussions with people who hold different opinions is an integral part of university. As a Councillor, I will never waver in my support of academic discussion and debate. No matter how controversial the opinion, I believe that students must have an outlet to voice them. I believe that free speech and expression must remain a key part of this campus, and even controversial topics must be open to debate and discussion among students. I will not only support discourse, but actively fight to promote it.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

The biggest issue facing the USC is the lack of outreach with the student body. The USC over the past few years has operated behind closed doors. For a student government to operate like this is unacceptable. Students must be able to have a transparent understanding of what their elected representatives are doing on their behalf. Its time we reengage with the students, advocate on their behalf and bring back passion for the USC. We need to host town halls, establish more referendums, and open a direct line of communication. We need to return the USC to the people.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

• Nap Rooms in the UCC. Giving student’s an area to recharge during the day will contribute positively to a student’s academics and physical well being.
• Implement Missed Academic Work Relief. A program at McMaster University allowed students to miss one assessment per semester worth 25% or less of their final mark without any questions asked. This program facilitated not only academic success, but physical and mental well being as well.
• Subsidizing the cost of Faculty Soph fees to be below $90. This removes financial barriers and allows more students to be a part of the O-Week experience.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

A huge part in my decision to run was the fact that students were not feeling supported by and connected to their own student government. I want to put outreach and engagement at the forefront of USC policy. The USC needs to host at least bi-monthly town halls, to give students an opportunity to voice concerns. We must establish a direct method of contact between students and their respective councillors. Referendums must be held to allow students to decide on issues that will affect them and their university experience. My main priority is to make sure students feel engaged.

What is your current year and program?

Year 2, Medical Sciences.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

I am running for USC council this year as I want to make an impact on Western. I want to be able to be a liaison between Science students and the USC as well as a voice for all. I feel that the USC can be more communicative with its students and try to get as much input as they can when it comes to making decisions about our school. Everyone should be heard and I want to be the voice that expresses everyone’s thoughts and feelings.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

I think I am fit for this position as in my first year I represented my floor on the Residents’ Council at Delaware Hall. In addition, as well as sophing I am the Health and Wellness Commissioner on Delaware Hall Residents’ Council. Furthermore, I high school I was the basketball captain of the senior team. I think these experiences help qualify me as they have given me past council experience as well as the ability to take input from others and team work skills.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

I think that the biggest issue around campus is communication between the student bodies and the students. For example I know many people that did not know that purple fest was open to everyone and missed out on the incredible opportunity and event that the USC put on for its students. The USC and other student bodies must better express and communicate with its students.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

I think the biggest issue with the USC is that they don’t involve as much of the school as they can when it comes to making decisions. Thus far throughout my university career, there haven’t been many times when it has come to making decisions about the future of this school. I think a good policy to put in place would be to allow people to vote on what they think is best for the school, in terms of where the USC puts money into.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

Three initiatives I will take as a USC councillor would be to try and get voting for other policies besides deciding who USC president becomes. Another would be to increase the communication and awareness about USC run events and try getting participation to a maximum. Lastly I would like to make USC more accessible to everyone. I believe that everyone should have a voice and be heard and I think that USC should make strides towards becoming as available as possible.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

I will engage students at large by always having an open ear to suggestions that students have for the USC. My email is reachable at all times for whenever someone has a question or concern. I always want to try getting a voting system in place, like the one we have for voting for USC council, so that all students have an input on the affairs of the USC.

What is your current year and program?

Year 3, Honours Specialization in Medical Sciences, Double Major in Medical Cell Biology & Pathology.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

Stepping into university, you never fully imagine the roadblocks you have to face. Sometimes those roadblocks hit you hard, but things happen for a reason. As a science student, I have experienced numerous challenges, but my success in overcoming them can be attributed to the opportunities this university has to offer. The USC council is a major platform that would allow me to share my experiences over the years with my fellow students and help collaborate with other like-minded individuals to provide a variety of opportunities to grow while being transparent, and connecting the student body in every way possible.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

• Faculty Science Soph: 2015-present
• Conference Co-Chair for Leadership Conference: 2014
• Vice President of Universities Allied for Essential Medicines (UAEM) 2016-2017
• SSC Children’s Christmas Party
• SSC Associate Charity Company/Soph Charity Committee
• Let’s Talk Science Volunteer 2016-2017
• Top 10 DECA oral case competition

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

Sometimes, as students we get so caught up in academics that we let it overpower us and don’t take a deep breath in. We need to find ways in which mental health can become a prominent aspect in our daily lives. Even though events are put into place to show students how to cope with mental stress, sometimes we need help in the least expected of times. We should create a platform (ex. a tab on owl) for people to find information they need to cope with their health-related issues quicker and more efficiently at times they need it most.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

As students, we do not have a clear understanding of how we can actively play a role in the variety of areas that USC focusses on. Due to this lack of understanding, we are unable to feel truly connected with the decision-making process. Each student should leave this university feeling as if he/she was given the opportunity to make a positive difference and have a say in their own student experience here at Western. Hence, the lack of integration and accessibility to opportunities where one can reach out to the council, is an issue I want to resolve, going forward.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

• Help to enhance and maintain a strong sense of interconnectedness between students and the individuals that represent them.
• Integrate mental wellness in the everyday aspects of student lives
• Providing easy, accessible certification programs to science students (i.e. CPR, First Aid)

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

One way I would engage the student body at large, would be with the creation of an OWL tab which encompasses all the initiatives that are supported through USC. Moreover, USC could play a more active role on social media as I truly believe that is one of the most efficient ways of communication in today’s generation. However, that does not mean that the council should be accessible solely through a computer screen –students should be able to walk in and have a face-to-face meeting with council members, giving them the reassurance that their opinions/suggestions/concerns are being valued.

What is your current year and program?

Year 1, Science.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

The USC has a great impact on the well-being and happiness of all students. Since a huge proportion of a student’s time is spent at Western, proper leadership is needed to make sure that their experience is the best it can be. I am running because I believe that my willingness to communicate and optimistic vision will result in a Western Government that works for all science students.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

As a first year student, much of my experience is from high school where I served as Student Council President, and worked with my fellow students to support countless charities such as the Canadian Cancer Society and Scrooge Food Drive. I also currently hold the position of Ward 5 Councillor on London’s Youth Council. Although I understand that the Science Councillor position will be a unique role from all of these, I am eager to use what I’ve learned from my past experiences to promote positive change at Western.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

Western provides a vast amount of incredible resources that can greatly benefit students. The issue lies in the fact that students are generally unaware of many of these options available to them. Without proper communication and message spreading, these resources go to waste. It is incredibly important that all students are made aware of these services so that they can improve their Western experience.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

When a student has an issue or concern with how their school is being run, it is difficult and rare for them to have their voice heard and lead to a meaningful difference. The student body has great power, and although the USC and Administration may do their best to act in the interest of students, these groups can be unaware of the existence of these problems. I believe there is a lack of accessibility and direct USC-Student Body communication which needs to be addressed.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

• Open up discussion on all major USC/SSC decisions to the whole student body. We know that decisions made by Western Government has an effect on all students, so why don’t all students have an effect on decisions made by Western Government?
• Improve direct communication by publicly posting my phone number and email, allowing any concerns to go directly to Council.
• Accountability for administration to ensure we receive marks and exam schedules in a timely fashion. Pursuing academics should be made as simple as possible, especially during this stressful period.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

My campaign focuses on approachability, welcomeness, and trouble-free communication. Although my role will be partially to represent the Science Faculty, it will also be to act as part of a team that works for all Mustangs. I plan to increase transparency by posting all decisions being made, as well as introducing online polling to measure student opinions on the issues that matter. The USC will be a team consisting of all faculties and many backgrounds; therefore, addressing the needs of all students can be done by creating strong communication channels between Western’s government and those they work for.

What is your current year and program?

Year 1, Science.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

University is a big place. Often times, students feel as though their opinions are irrelevant to larger-scale problems being tackled by the USC. I am running as a USC councillor to show you that your opinions matter. Being in my first year allows me to see things from a new and unbiased perspective as well as bring fresh ideas and initiatives to the table. I want to be the voice of the Science faculty, ensuring that you will be represented with integrity. I believe We Are Better Together as students, as a faculty and as a University.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

Before coming to Western, I was Co-President of my high school’s student council and sat on the WCDSB’s Student Senate. I was also one of the founding members of the YWCA Cambridge’s Girl’s Council and coached a Special Olympics basketball team. Since moving to London, I have served as one of the SSC’s first year reps and am a member of the Saugeen-Maitland Residence Council. These opportunities have equipped me with the experience and skills such as familiarity with voting policy, necessary to properly advocate for the student population of both the faculty of Science and the University.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

As a Science councillor candidate, one of the biggest issues I see on campus is a disconnect between students in the faculty of Science in their respective programs. Many initiatives are targeted towards Science as a faculty, not the specific programs/modules within it. While we will always be one big Sci family, in a faculty as big, and with busy schedules like ours, it is difficult to meet people outside your regular social circle. If we made a larger effort to create program-specific events, we would enhance the social and educational experience of students in every branch of science.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

Not everyone in University is interested in what the USC does, however what the USC does, affects everyone in University. The biggest problem with the USC is that they continue to ask students what they want to see when a large portion of students don’t know what the USC even does or can do. I think the USC should focus on presenting their ideas and initiatives in a way that every student, regardless of their political background can understand. By doing this, they will finally be able to gather accurate feedback and properly represent students from all faculties.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

If elected as councillor, I will partner with the department representatives of the SSC to create more program/module-specific events. I will also work to ensure you as Science students know who I am; a resource and voice for you. I promise to give you a solution to your concerns. If I can’t, I will connect you with someone who can. To collect all of your student feedback, I would like to initiate “Taylor Talks” once a month, where you will have the chance to express any concern science or USC related for me to bring to attention.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

I am not running as a Science councillor; but as a University councillor. If elected, I will work to put the “student” back into student experience. I’ll immerse myself in faculties and familiarize myself with clubs to make sure I am not only a liaison between the students in my faculty, but the students of this University. It’s important that students know who the councillors are and that we maintain a relationship beneficial to students. I’ll work to prove that it is not high school, but University that are the best four (or even more) years of your life.

What is your current year and program?

Year 3, Honours Specialization in Biochemistry & Pathology.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

There is a disconnect between USC and students. Many students, including myself at one point, didn’t even realize that student voice actually existed! After learning about how USC council works and the role students can play in making important decisions on campus, I immediately wanted to be a part of it. Students are a crucial component in this university and I want to ensure that their voices are heard!

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

• SSC Secretary: Being on Science Students’ Council as a commissioner helped me better understand the internal workings of the council and the role USC councillors play of the council.
• Off Campus Soph: This position is not only one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had, but also a means of developing my interpersonal skills and liaising abilities!
• Student: As someone who wants to represent you, I believe being a student is definitely very relevant! I have experienced many difficulties as a student here, and this personal encounter will aid me in speaking up for my fellow students.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

We have so many resources, but not many students know about them. Have you heard of Omsbudperson? Not many have, but go check it out now! If students don’t know about these amazing opportunities, they won’t utilize them. This issue inhibits many students from getting the support that they need, and that is not okay.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

Many students do not know what the USC does and how it operates, resulting in an unwillingness to get involved with it. This issue is reflected in the low voting turnout of 24% last year. The USC is for the students. If students aren’t actively participating or involved with it, then the USC cannot properly serve their demographic.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

• Topics that will be discussed at USC meetings should be published via social media. That way, students-at-large know what USC is working on and can provide their own input to the councillors in time for meetings!
• To ensure the student voice is heard, this anonymous online platform for students-at-large lets them voice any concerns. Councillors can use this feedback to advocate for the students they represent.
• If we want students to be more involved in USC, we need to create more diverse opportunities for them! Furthermore, this information must be better communicated so that more students are aware of them.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

Outreach. When the majority of students aren’t very interested in the USC, waiting for them to come to us will not work. Instead, we need to go to them. For example, although the offices of USC executives are always open for students-at-large, we would get far more engagement if the execs spent an hour or two a week in a more student-central location like the Spoke or Mustang Lounge. Councillors can follow suit and reach out to students in a similar manner!

What is your current year and program?

Year 2, Medical Sciences.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

Active involvement within the Western Community has been a huge part of my Western experience, and I would be humbled with the opportunity to represent your voice in the grand vision of enhancing the student experience. My passion for student advocacy has amplified exponentially this past year while being exposed to the forefront of problems that students are facing. As a USC Councillor, I hope to uncover the needs of the Science student body and to implement real change while collectively celebrating innovation, revolution and creation. After all, - science is a collaborative effort.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

This past year I was submersed into the world of SCI as a Science Soph. This experience has undoubtedly, and still continues to, open my eyes to the various issues around campus and the deeper struggle of student life at Western. Last year, I also sat on the Science Students’ Council Student Events Committee and helped organize various events including Science Formal, gaining invaluable team building experience while doing so. Concurrently, I also served as an executive Member of the Kidney Club where I further developed my leadership skills, which I hope to put forward as your incoming USC Councillor.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

The movement to advocate for mental and emotional wellness has exploded in recent years but this road has not yet been fully paved. Students are beginning to feel more open to the idea of seeking help but I believe that the accessibility of these resources is somewhat absent. 17/20 students that I had asked were unaware that Western’s psychological services center is located on the fourth floor of the Western Student Services building. Though our beautiful campus may be ornamented with posters promoting Mental Wellness, information pertaining to the resources available to students has potential to be more accessible.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

I believe that there is a lack of communication between the student body as a whole and the USC. The general consensus that I’ve gathered while conversing with my fellow peers is that undergraduate students are often unaware of the decisions that are being made behind the scenes that directly impacts them. The transparency between the student body and the USC, and students are not being accurately represented to the truest extent.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

• To enhance transparency by informing students with the decisions that are affirmed within the USC.
• To improve accessibility of resources pertaining to mental wellness.
• To collaborate with students and implement an easy-access tab that includes relevant information concerning research positions, events, and clubs that would spark the interest of the science student body.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

To engage students at large with the USC, I will make it my personal goal to improve transparency between the student body and the USC by implementing events that will be specific to gathering feedback from the science student body. Furthermore, given the popularity of social media nowadays, I believe that it is an effective tool to transmit information to a large volume of students. Above all, I will personally address the concerns, ideas and questions of the science community to the best of my ability while maintaining an approachable and welcoming environment.

What is your current year and program?

Year 1, Medical Sciences.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

Through my experience volunteering in Tanzania, Africa, I realized the progress that comes from a strong community. My goal is to create consistent communication between the students in the faculty of Science and the University Students’ Council which will in turn create a stronger community. With a stronger community, there will be more voices heard, more change, and more improvements, all coming together to create a better undergraduate experience for the students in the faculty of Science.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

I am a current first year representative on the Science Students’ Council.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

We’ve seen amazing improvements in the view of mental health and the resources available to get help for mental wellness, however we do need to continue to improve. Mental wellness is, in my opinion, the biggest issue on campus right now and must consistently be an open conversation, as mental wellness has great impacts on both physical, and academic wellness. These are crucially important aspects of student life in the faculty of Science with high workload that can lead to increased stress. The University Students’ Council must continue and improve its support of mental health.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

The USC does so many great things to better the student experience, however the conversation between the USC and Science students can sometimes seem like a one-way street. There must be continuous communication between the Science students and the Council to let students know what the Council is doing behind the scenes, and to express the opinions and ideas that the students have. A clear and continuous conversation will guarantee a consistent representation of students, allowing an improved undergraduate experience.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

Communication is so crucial to improvement. I’d like to propose a system or platform through which students are encouraged to both express their opinions on topics being discussed by the USC, and put forward any new ideas or changes they’d like to see. I would also like to create a connection between the many resources that Western offers such as health and wellness and academic resources, as these issues are quite often connected. With many perspectives through different councils and faculty Councillors, I would like to communicate more with other faculties to get a wider range of ideas.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

Engaging with students at large can be tough, and I don’t think there will be a single best way to do it. Some students may engage more when they’re connected in person with somebody from the USC, whereas some students are very busy and would rather take a quick survey online; likewise, some students are introverted and some are extroverted. Rather than focusing on one big way to engage everybody, perhaps we should consider multiple systems to engage with the USC and let students choose which method they prefer.

What is your current year and program?

Year 3, Double Major in Political Science & Psychology.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

I have been on the Social Science Council for two years now with a non-voting role. I feel that I have learned a lot over the years, and to make a change in my 4th year, I need a position with a vote.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

I have been on the Social Science Council for two years. I’m an executive of four different clubs, I’m a part of over five other clubs that I’m active on, and I have a job on campus (RezNet).

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

Lack of interest or unawareness. Students don’t care about fixing issues or simply do not know that they could try fixing this. This is really shown by the lack of voters in elections.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

Simplicity is an issue. There are a lot of committees, subcommittees, and so on and the lay student might be overwhelmed. Having a simple list with what each committee is, and who’s on it should be considered.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

Increasing the ease of access and overall simplicity around council; enabling more continuity over goals throughout multiple years; and promoting more spontaneous events for the students that engage students and promote ‘fun’.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

I’m very involved in campus spanning many clubs, and an on-campus job. I plan on hearing students’ voices, and bringing their ideas and issues to the council.

What is your current year and program?

Honours Specialization in Urban Development.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

Being a part of a very small program at Western (urban development) I know that there are plenty of different needs for every single student. Social science is the largest faculty on campus and I want to bring my personal experiences, whether those experiences are shared by many of my peers or simply myself, to the council.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

I think every student has had numerous interactions with other students, faculty members, the school, and the city of London enabling them all to be qualified for a position on student council. Personally I have been involved in a wide range of activities from being an OPSA mentor, participating on various intramural sports teams and starting a clothing brand as a part of a school project. All of these have given me valuable experience working both collaboratively and independently in my time at Western.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

To be completely honest I can’t think of any big issues at Western. Visiting many different universities in the past three years and hearing complaints about other schools, many of the issues I have on campus are very small issues. This being said, I believe that working out small issues can have a large impact on the campus as a whole. More collaborative learning spaces, giving students more knowledge about resources that can be used by and for students, along with better quality interaction between faculty and students would be some of the issues I would be interested in tackling.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

I think that spreading information in ways that won’t push away students is the biggest issue with the USC and many other clubs on campus. Constant Facebook notifications, although a very easy way to reach out to a large number of people, actually deterred me from many of the great opportunities at Western. Keeping students engaged and aware of issues is always a challenge and one I hope to discuss and change with my fellow councillors.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

Being from Vancouver, I find that London isn’t the most culturally diverse and exciting city and I feel that Western doesn’t do much working with the city to try to change this. Many events happen within Western but I would hope to encourage partnerships with small companies and the city to give students more diversity with their extra-curricular activities.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

Engaging students in a way that doesn’t push them away is something that should definitely be discussed. Although social media is a great tool with our generation I find that it isn’t always the best means of communication. Physically getting students on campus and encouraging them to tell their friends through word-of- mouth about the USC is something I would like to push for as I myself found out about the councillor position through a friend and did not see any of the posts on Facebook until a few days after the application was due.

What is your current year and program?

Year 3, Economics.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

There are two reasons I am running for this position:

a. I consider myself a helpful and outgoing person. I always want to seek any opportunity to engage and serve the community.

b. Not a lot of things are perfect, including the service to the students from the USC. I see places where we can do better and I want to assist in that. I will answer that further in later questions.

What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

One of the most important skills required in this position is identifying issues and finding solutions for them. I worked as a group sales agent in Niagara Cruises, a boat ride offering the closest view to Niagara Falls. I am proud to be one of the employees serving over 1 million people from all around the world taken in just a season. Throughout the summer, I had to deal with missing child cases, over-crowding, and fighting, among other problems. The communication skills necessary in that role will transfer over well into this one.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

Mental Health Support is the biggest issue on campus. It should be dealt with as a priority. Although there are some services on campus helping those people who are suffering from mental health issues, like the peer support centre and the WEC, public knowledge is low. Advertising the support services better is a suggestion.

What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

An issue with USC should be raised, the lack of public knowledge of the USC itself, which is also the cause of the lack of student’s engagement in the election. My suggestion on this issue is to improve marketing and advertising, and holding more events to increase its publicity.

What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

• Increase mental health support.
• Negotiate with LTC for a better bus service.
• Lobby for more affordable meals on campus.

How will you engage students at large with the USC?

Two things I will do to engage with the students actively:

a. I will propose a plan where a councillor should have a mandatory office hours, which is part of our job, to work for the students and hear the voice.

b. Events in which all can participate. Not only to engage with students, but also to spread awareness of USC events.

What is your current year and program?

Year 3, Political Science, Minor in Writing Studies.

Why are you running for USC council this year?

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What relevant experience do you have that makes you qualified for the position you are applying for?

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What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue on campus and why?

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What do you as a councillor candidate see as the biggest issue with the USC and why?

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What are the top three tasks/initiatives you as a councillor want to push for if elected?

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How will you engage students at large with the USC?

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