Hello Roehampton,

My name is Shay Patel and I am running to be your next RSU President!

For those of you who don’t know me, I have been the president of Southlands for the last two years. I have thoroughly enjoyed representing the students located on that wonderful college. However, I feel as though it is time for me to step up and represent ALL of you, by becoming your new RSU president!

My Story

4 years ago, I didn’t think a University experience would even be a possibility for me as I didn’t get the grades required for my first or second choice Universities. I only managed to gain a place at Roehampton through clearing and didn’t know what to expect. However, choosing Roehampton has definitely proven to be the best decision I’ve ever made. This University has provided me with so many opportunities and has enabled me to have the best time possible. Now, I wish to return the favour to the Roehampton community and contribute by enhancing each of your experiences.

Being a College President for the past couple of years has encouraged me to strengthen my connections with the RSU and University staff. The role has enabled me to sit on a variety of different committees to gain further insight into how the University and the Student Union works together. If elected as your SU President, I promise to work hard in liaising with these key staff members to ensure that you voice is heard, and your ideas are represented.

My Ideas

• Increase awareness around Mental Health – ensure that staff and Flat-Reps receive appropriate education and training in helping students who are struggling with their mental health
• Reduce BAME attainment gap – ensure that EVERYONE is able to receive the same quality of education
• Increase employability after University – create more career fairs and links to companies and increase career hub advertisement
• Social spaces – improve social spaces around campus to give the University more of a community feel
• Improve University services e.g. Security and maintenance – if we’re being treated as customers, we should be able to demand an effective service!
• Laundry! – continue pushing for new laundry facilities (I promised I wouldn’t leave without this being done!)
• Increase engagement with the off-campus community - through working with reps for off-campus students (R.O.C.S)
• Support events that are accessible for diverse communities – everyone should feel welcome at their own home

I aim to work with ALL officers, to ensure that every demographic is represented to the highest level.

My elections slogan has always been ‘VOTE SHAY, TO HAVE YOUR SAY’ and that’s what I feel it’s all about. By electing me, I will be able to strengthen each and every one of your voices, to ensure that all your views and ideas are represented, to shape the University into how YOU want it to be. You pay £9000 to study here, I will make sure that you get the most out of your money!