Voting opens in:
00d : 00h : 00m : 00s

Candidate Statement

Candidate for the position of RSU Officers - President Education

Image for Shane Colaco Lemos

Shane Colaco Lemos

Candidate Statement
The strongest candidate is someone who can build bridges, and my greatest quality is strategic networking. As a Business student, I’ve developed the professional communication skills needed to navigate university hierarchies and connect with the right decision-makers. I know how to find the person responsible for issues like the SEATS app and negotiate a solution. I will use this "business mindset" to collaborate with academic Schools to strengthen 1-to-1 support and push for expanded bursaries and hardship funding that is truly accessible for all, including international students.
​I am a natural collaborator who thrives on bringing people together. I am approachable and high-energy, with the boldness to drive improvements in careers and employability by campaigning for more paid placements and internships. Having lived on campus for two years, I have the empathy to listen and the "professional polish" to lead. I am reliable, organized, and ready to work for you .
My Business degree has taught me to cut through red tape and manage resources effectively. I know how to present data-backed cases to the University to ensure our needs aren't ignored. Living on campus for two years has also given me an unfiltered look at our struggles: from the glitchy SEATS app to scattered timetables and the feedback gap in our marking.
​I’ve already started building the networks needed to fix these. I plan to collaborate with the Student Futures team to transform skills workshops—moving away from generic advice to practical, real-world training, interview prep, and networking events tailored to our specific career interests. I understand the logistical challenges of campus life and the pressure of the graduate job market. My experience is grounded in reality: I’ve seen where the systems fail, and I have the professional mindset to build the smoother, fairer, and more career-focused university experience we all deserve.
I’m a huge football fan who loves being part of a big, vibrant group of friends. I believe student life is better when we're all connected, and I’ll bring that social energy and "team-first" mentality to everything I do for you.