Hi! My name is Jaemiel De Guzman and I would be honoured to act as a student representative for my final year of International Business. I would love to represent the views of the International Business students this academic year, to maximise our university experience and better the course for the students yet to come. I want to help to improve the quality of the educational experience the University has to offer, create a more inclusive environment of community within the school and to continue or improve the standard of satisfaction that the Faculty of Business has.
If nominated as your representative, I would aim to ensure that:
- An effective culture is created for our virtual classes -whether this is through diversifying modes to enhance engagement, proactively assisting struggling students, implementing more one-on-one conversations, encouraging more discussions or sending more emails and announcements. Anyone can make their voice heard and express their opinion on the improvements of the learning and teaching environment, I will endeavour to give you opportunities to inform me of what I can do to improve your experience and make this known to the programme leader.
- There is increased support for students who will be graduating in the year 2021, particularly due to the impact of the virus on the job market. I would advocate and promote campaigns that would include tailored information, resources and services to help students develop their careers and build employability skills from home. As a result, future graduates would feel that much more confident and prepared when seeking jobs or graduate schemes.
- The mental health of students will be prioritised, especially with the current state of uncertainty. The transition from face-to-face learning to 'online learning' may be a very difficult time for students, and can negatively impact their studies. Therefore, it is vital that students are given space and time to voice the thoughts and emotions students are experiencing in between lectures and seminars. I will strive to promote student wellbeing during online learning through raising awareness on digital wellbeing trackers and online mindfulness workshops.
I believe that the qualities that I have acquired in communication as well as in teamworking, creativity and decision-making, make me a great fit for the role of Course Rep. Through my past university roles as Climate Change Ambassador and DMU Saints Cheerleader, I have been able to develop my teamwork skills further, which in turn, allowed me to effectively cooperate and collaborate with a variety of individuals. I would provide an excellent communication bridge between the students and staff, raising all concerns about the programme, modules or any other worries you may have. I am determined to contribute my time and energy to create positive changes that students want to see and would be honoured to represent you during the coming year.