Special Edition

Editor: Sara Hadfield

Editor-In-Chief: Elizabeth Simos
Produced in USSU,
University of Surrey,
Guildford
Est. 2008

FREE

Sabbatical Elections
2010/2011

Read the Manifestos

NOW! In this manifesto special:

Read all the candidates’ manifestos and make
the right choice for YOUR Union!
Recycle
Special Edition I 8th March 2010 I www.thestagsurrey.co.uk
Your Stag!

 


  
 

 
 

 

 


 
23

President
Candidate Name : Alex Chalikiopoulos
Position : USSU President
Personal Statement.
I am a final year Business Economics with Finance student and will be running to be your Union President in this year’s
student’s union election. I believe that the combination of an equally active academic and social life has enhanced my
understanding of what University is all about. Throughout my time here I have been able to interact with a variety of people and
this has enabled me to observe and take on board what it is that you want out of your time at university. If elected, I obviously
aim not only to achieve the objectives set out below, but to identify evolving issues set out by you, act upon these and rectify
the negative aspects of your university experience whilst upholding the positive ones.

Why me? VOTE FOR ALEX : VOTE FOR YOUR UNION : VOTE FOR YOUR VOICE

x I am completely approachable, well rounded, open-minded, but also serious about what the position entails.
x Valuable knowledge of an office environment, completing tasks punctually & making decisions when the consequences are not solely limited to me.
x Lived the whole university experience, with an excellent academic record, completion of a placement year & involvement in a range of social activities.
x Having experienced diverse cultures & been brought up in an international environment, I know I’ll be able to represent the student population as a whole.

Key Objectives.

1. Enhance Communication & Accessibility - A stronger
student voice can only be amplified through direct communication with
the University union. There would be no better way than to put policies
in place that increase the ease to which students can approach me and
discuss further issues concerned with USSU. I vow to create extra
weekly sessions (aside my office hours) for students willing to just
come by and discuss certain issues. In addition, I will not only be living
on campus but I hope to commit a large amount of my time in actually
getting out amongst you, interacting and taking on board all your needs.
2. Combat Student Apathy – If any of you were aware of the
poor attendance at this year’s Union AGM, you would understand how
important and relevant this point is in regards to your requirements.
Whether students feel disenfranchised due to a lack of transparency or
lack of knowledge of the union’s activities and functions, I aim to
combat this feeling, by enhancing communication through social media
and streamlining the democratic channel for student’s voices to the top.
This is your union, and should therefore be your voice being
represented.

3. Promote Student Entrepreneurship - In an environment
where corporate mentality seems to be overpowering the
entrepreneurial aptitude within a lot of you out there, I aim to
encourage the flair and talent of our very own students, on our very
own campus. I hope to provide the resources to those willing to bring
new concepts and innovative ideas that shall improve the day to day
running of the union as whole, but also grant you – the students – with
a chance to excel in projects that will minister to your personal
development.
4. Support Integration - In light of the University’s intentions on
expanding projects beyond the main campus (see for example the
investment in the Surrey Sports complex), I will closely monitor the
foundations laid out and hope to develop upon and improve these in
order to better suit your desires. I believe it is imperative that all
students, whether they reside on-campus or not, do not feel isolated
from the opportunities and offerings of our union.
vote.ussu.co.uk : 15th – 26th March, 2010

MANIFESTO FOR ARRAN STEARS

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 24
Do YOU believe your Students' Union REPRESENTS you?

Vote JACK COLBY

[1]
For President
& Get a Union that listens and truly represents to YOU!
If elected I will:
 Increase the availability of the Sabbaticals. & Executive officers to the general
student body.
 Reorganise and adapt the Union's representational system to suit the modern
student. Currently, each of the 13 Union officers must represent 1077 students.
I aim to alter the current system.
 Give more power to the Sports' and Societies' Standings, enabling them to be
more representational of YOU, the Students.

See my Facebook group “Vote [1] For Jack Colby For President” for the full
manifesto.

(KOSTA) Vlachos, Kostantinos - George

VOTE KOSTA [1] FOR UNION PRESIDENT

MANIFESTO

Why you should vote for me :

My name is Kostas Vlachos and I am a postgraduate student at the University of Surrey for the academic
year 2009-2010. My major is in International Business Management and I have already completed my
undergraduate studies at the American College of Greece on Computer Information Systems. In the
meanwhile I have finished a second bachelor degree in Management specifically in the field of Business
Administration at the Technological Educational Institute of Athens. This process has helped me be more
organized and equipped to deal with my obligations and I am ready to handle any difficult situation
especially when under pressure. Additionally, I am an outgoing student who enjoys socializing and
meeting people. For that reason I got involved in the Computer Information Society as a Committee
Coordinator in 2008 where I was in charge of society events in coordination with the Deree College
officers. Moreover, in 2007 I handled financial matters for the Computer Graphics and Program Design
Club as a treasurer. For the above reasons I truly believe that I am capable for the position of president in
USSU, since I can help students by not only listening to, but dealing with their problems and raising
awareness about their concerns. I will be their voice and their solution to their problems. I hope that I will
gain your trust and that together we will fight for our union and our rights. I am counting on your vote.

My campaign to be a president of Surrey Student Union in the elections to be held in March 2010 is based
on the following goals:
¾ PUTTING STUDENTS FIRST
¾ To achieve a better environment between students and academics, by creating a direct line of communication, so our concerns
and problems can be properly heard and dealt with. Furthermore, direct contact with students to address any problem via
mail/phone (enforcing an open door policy)
¾ Improve Bus roots for better and accurate transportation of students on various courts (Bellerby, Manor Park, Private
Accommodation)
¾ Bookshop: tickets to buy books online (e-tickets). No more cues, providing easier access to everybody.
¾ Library, 24 hrs per day like most universities around UK at least one month before each exam periods, since it is more
comfortable and helpful to study there. Also try to enrich library with additional resources i.e. books, journals
¾ Starbucks – to stay open till late. Try to hire more employees (which could be beneficial for financial aid students).
¾ Manor Park – as a resident there I feel there is a lack of an ATM, mini-market, coffee shop etc.
25


 

  








 

 
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 26
VP Education
   J#K
  
About Me
I am a final year Business Management student and have become passionately & actively involved in our
Students' Union during my time here.
I currently hold the position of Events Coordinator for the RAG Society, a post that requires a great deal of
dedication, drive and determination. I have also worked in Rubix since September 2009, and greatly value
the experience I’ve gained in seeing just how our union operates.

Throughout my time at Surrey I have seen first-hand the pivotal role you should, and do, play in shaping not
only your education but all aspects of your university life and I am looking for your support in electing me as
your Vice-President Education for 2010-11.
If Elected I Will:

1) Oppose, Protest and Campaign against any funding cuts that directly affect YOUR quality of teaching.
x Universities took over a decade to recover from the funding crises of the 1980’s; Lets not let them
make the same mistakes again. I will not let your futures be put at risk
x Surrey University’s aim is to become a top 10 university by 2019, this will only be done by constantly
investing in teaching and in your education. A university is only as strong as its students

2) Ensure that the university does not introduce higher tuition fees for students.
x Students should not be expected to pay more when funding cuts are on the agenda
x You should be able to study at the university you deserve NOT the university you can afford

3) Address problems with the current Student Representative System by creating a new Academic Council
for each Faculty, open to all students and meeting regularly once a month.
x Encourages greater dialogue between students and their reps
x Regularly quiz your Academic Reps and VP Education on the academic issues that matter to YOU

4) Create a printer credits system that is fair for ALL students

x It is grossly unfair that some subjects give their students up to 500 free sheets of A4 a semester whilst other students get nothing
x You should not be financially penalised because of the subject you choose to study

5) Address the “Beach-Towel” culture that affects the library at exam times
x Bring an end to row after row of claimed but empty desks in the library by allowing a maximum of 45 minutes away from a desk
x Free up more critically needed learning space for the students that deserve it

Vote Matthew Rawlings [1]

for VP Education
Your Education, Your Candidate
I will...
™ Fight to improve examination procedures and feedback.
™ Increase support for departmental representatives.
™ Increase student awareness of appeals and complaints
procedure.

Matthew is…
a third year Electronics and Computer Engineering student. He has been an active
student representative since secondary school. He served two years on his
department's Staff-Student Liaison Committee; where he successfully lobbied for
improvements to the coursework marking scheme. He has always been committed to
improving the experience of fellow students and has provided first aid in the Union
since his first year.
Experience and commitment matter – vote Rawlings
27
ManifestoVicePresidentEducation
SamBull
OverthelasttwoyearsIhavehadtheprivilegeto
representyouasyourStudentsUnionChairman,I
amnowaskingforyoursupportoncemoretoelect
measyourUnionChairperson.
EducationPolicy
Delivered
AsyourUnionChairmanIhaveactivelyworkedto
ensurethattheUnionhasthedemocratic
processesinplacetoensurethatpolicycanbe
passedbythemostrepresentativebodypossible.
DuringmytermsinofficeIhaveseenstudentsbring
theirownmotionsandchangeaspectsoftheUnion
tomaketheirengagementwithitabetterprocess.
Whilewedohavepoliciesreflectinghowwe
operateinternallywedonothaveaverydiverse
portfoliowhencomestointernalandexternal
educationissues.ThismeansthatyourVice
PresidentEducationcannotknowforsurewhat
issuesareofkeyconcerntoyou.
IfElectedIwill:
Createaworkinggroupofinterestedstudentsto
helpdrafteducationpolicyforthisUniontopresent
toStudentsParliament.ThismeansthattheUnion
canstarttocampaignontheissuethatyoucare
aboutandstarttomakerealchangestoyour
educationalexperiences.
Representation
AttheUnionAGMthisFebruaryIproposedthenew
Unionconstitution,whiledraftingthisdocument
theissueofrepresentationwasakeypoint
throughout.Withthisnewconstitutionwesee
studentsgenuinelyempowered,withnewpowers
forStudentsParliamentandaGeneralMeetingof
Students(themostpowerfuldecisionmakingbody
intheUnion).AsyourUnionChairmanIhave
deliveredrealchangeforrepresentationatSurrey.
WhiletheUnionmaybeonabetterfootingin
termsofdemocraticrepresentation,whenitcomes
totheacademicrepsystemweneedtoseesome
improvement.Thefirststepshavebeentakenin
termsofUniontrainingbutweneedtobemore
radicalinreformingthissystemforyou!
IfElectedIwill:
PushforacademicrepstobebroughtunderUnion
asopposetoUniversitycontrolsothatweknow
whoalltheacademicrepsareandcanyouknow.I
willcreateanewforumsimilartoSocietiesand
SportsStandinginwhichacademicrepcanvoice
theirconcernsandsteerthedirectionoftheir
representationatthehigherlevelsoftheuniversity.
ThismeansthatifyouelectmeasyourVice
PresidentEducation
NationalRepresentationandHigherEducation
FundingReform
Delivered
Iamthemostexperiencecandidateinthiselection
innationalrepresentation;Ihaveattended2NUS
ExtraordinaryConferences,NUSNational
Conference,NUSRegionalConferenceandNUS
ZoneConferenceonUnionDevelopment.Ihave
takenrecommendationsfromotherUniversities
andledtheimprovementwewillseethisyearin
ourvotingsystem,Ihavevotedtoreformyour
NationalUnionandIhavevotedforanalternative
fundingmodelforHigherEducation.
TheHigherEducationFundingReviewisdueto
publishitsrecommendationsthisyearand
Universitiesarealreadyseeingcutstotheir
budgets,weneedstrongnationalrepresentationto
ensurethatstudentsarenotaskedtobearthe
bruntoftherecession.
IfElectedIwill:
Fightforafairerfundingmodeltoreflecttheneeds
ofallstudents.IamafirmbelieverofHigher
Educationbeingfreeatthepointofdelivery,butI
alsobelievethatstudentsshouldcontribute
towardsthecostoftheireducationbasedonits
valuetothem.IfyouelectmeIwilllobbytoseethe
NUSBlueprintforhighereducationisconsideredas
aseriousoptionandfightforafairerfunding
systemforHigherEducation.
Foradedicated,experienced,andcredible
candidatevoteSamBull[1]foryourV.PEducation.
Adetailedmanifestoisavailableat
www.votesambull.co.uk

VP Education Candidate - Stef Jones What I will achieve:

Personal Statement: I will focus on the problem of unpaid placements. Any

student on placement should be eligible for government
I am Stef Jones and I am asking you to vote me as VP Education for funding and support as placement training can be essential
2010/2011. This role attracts me as I am passionate about working to gaining employment.
with students and committed to ensuring that each student has a
rich and enjoyable university experience. It is going to be a difficult year and I want students to be
aware of the financial situation this country is in,
I am an enthusiastic, active and dedicated final year Dance and highlighting government cuts and the rising tuition fees. If
Culture student with the wish to pursue an educational based fees are raised, it is important to ensure that all students
career within the dance industry. Last year I was a course mentor have sufficient financial assistance. Students should be
that successfully supported students in their first year. I am also able to access higher education on ability, not creating an
the Social Secretary of the Trampolining Squad. elitist group that that has the ability to pay.
Since November 2007 I have worked in both Rubix and Chancellors I will push the Student Academic Representation role to
which has allowed me to gain a significant insight into the running take a less passive and more active function between
of your Students Union. I have also witnessed the importance of groups of staff and students, increasing communications
the relationship between the Students Union and the individual by successfully training new mentors to ensure the
student. stronger relationships are maintained and the weaker
relationships form strong partnerships which allow every
Education is one of the most important factors within a degree and student to be heard.
I want ALL students - under-graduate, post-graduate, placement
students and students who are not always on campus to have the I want to publicise the idea of Flexible Learning. It will
best possible education at Surrey. ensure that all students feel wholly supported and
represented; parent students, international students,
I believe I am the best candidate for this job. mature students, post-graduates and students studying
away. Flexible learning would assist in meeting special
What will I do for you?
requirements for students to continue with their education
I will represent you as stress free as possible.

I will support you *Ensuring Timetables are released early enough so

students can make the necessary arrangements.
I will make you as an individual student my main focus as your VP
Education *Making sure students can continue their hobbies and
sports along with their studies

*For distant learners to have the opportunity to easily find

out what is going on in their union

VP Societies
Vote ARIS KAZAK [1]
VP Societies and I.D.
PARTICIPATION | CREATIVITY | MANAGEMENT
Why am I running?
The numbers show that societies and clubs dynamics decrease every year, proving that
now more than ever before there is a need for change. Through my three year
involvement in societies I have experienced first hand, most of the difficulties and barriers
societies and the student community have to overcome on a daily basis. I am passionate
and a thinker, constantly searching to develop new innovative opportunities to enhance
each society’s status in the University. Cyclone:Rebirth’s advancement is clear proof of my
ability to draw and implement a long term plan with more than a successful outcome.
Furthermore, the democratic, team-building approach I followed as president allowed the
members to take freely initiatives that enhanced their personal development and the
society experience as a whole. Finally, as an elected representative of the student
community I will always defend and promote the student rights.
What will i do?
A. Participation
I perceive societies and clubs as a “system” with four main relationships. I intend to
improve the status of all the societies in the University by achieving a stronger
participation of:
• Students in the Societies: Number of students joining a society is decreasing every
year. Encourage and promote students to join or create societies.
• Societies in Student Life: Increase the extent of the involvement of the societies in
student’s everyday life. Societies should shape students’ lives in a more vibrant way.
• Student’s Union in the Societies: Establish a solid and lively relationship between the
VP and the Student’s Union with the societies through frequent feedback and
consultancy sessions. Planning of more collaborative projects like iFestival.
• Societies in the Student’s Union: Utilize students as a resource leading to the:
•Improvement of the Student’s Union operations
•Development of the societies
28
B. Society and Clubs Management
•Structure of Societies: Bearing in mind the diverse nature of societies in our university,
changes could be made accordingly on the structure of a societies board in an attempt by
each society to meet its full potential. In this way a society will be operating in a model
that could help reach its goals efficiently.
•Fundraising: Entrepreneurial suggestions to raise funds and expand operations.
C. Individual Development
The current economic climate stresses the importance for students to obtain additional
employability skills. The direction the Student’s Union has taken, must be enhanced by the
participation of all the faculties in a bigger collaborative project.
Moreover an extra incentive must be given to students who play an important role in the
progression of the societies in which they belong. By introducing a society merit system,
students contribution to the exemplary running of a society could be officially recognised
by the Student’s Union.
Who am I?
I am a final year Business Management student, currently president of Cyclone:Rebirth
(The Dance Music Society) and an active member of the GU2 Radio Station. These three
years in Surrey haven’t been my sole academic experience as I have also studied
“Production Engineering and Management” at the Technical University of Crete. During
my time there, I had the chance to lead the board of the local student radio station for two
years(2005-2006), as well as set up big scale events , like “Entasi Dance Festival 2005” and
promote local and national charity events. Apart from my academic career I have worked
in WS Atkins for two consecutive summers as an intern and deputy project financial
controller. Last but not least I am an artist. The same element that characterises my DJ and
producer career; CREATIVITY, will be the main driver to achieve my goals as
YOUR VP Societies and Individual Development.

Election Period 15th – 26th March

Visit *vote.ussu.co.uk*

VOTE KIKO FOR VP SOCIETIES & I.D.!!

I’m Kiko, a second year Business Management student. I have started Portuguese Society in
year 2009 which was successfully awarded to be the Best Newcomer society of the year. This
year the society has continued to host successful events. I am founding member of “Surrey
Mail" socials which allowed many small societies to come together and hold events at a scale
they could not do alone. I have been catalyst for cultural integration allowing home students to
take maximum benefit of the cultural wealth that travels with international students to this
university. With the support of friends I worked to create “East Meets West” which has brought
Greeks, Iranians, Arabs, Indians, Cypriots, Portuguese and other cultural societies together.

Why I would like your Vote:

My Pledges
9 To improve the financial
security of the Societies.
9 To develop better commercial
partnerships to gain
sponsorships for societies.
9 To improve AGMs by
introducing electronic voting
systems for societies.
9 To introduce an electronic and
robust signup system for
societies.
9 To promote meetings between
societies committees with
similar interests.
9 To continue my work, along
with the other union officers,
to celebrate the diversity
within surrey students.
¾ As President and starting a new successful society, I’ve worked with other diverse
societies, and elected as Officer for International Societies, I believe I am in the best
position to offer advice from the experience and work towards new initiatives.
¾ I have shown with my level of involvement to help and raise various issues and
participating in the democracy process by being involved with Student Parliament, that I
am a caring, approachable and confident person.
¾ I have built strong relationships with societies whilst developing and supporting their
work, and will continue to do so. Having been part of societies, as well as executive in
“Society Standing", I am aware of the problems and conflicts that can arise within a
committee and feel that I have the knowledge to resolve any issues based on relevant and
unbiased opinions.
¾ I am passionate about “International Festival", celebrating different festivals, which I will
make better and bigger during my time at the university and the union.
To demonstrate that, later on this semester, I will be the main promoter of a “Brazilian
Night” where we will show the culture of Brazil to the students of our University
My view on Individual Development:
¾ I feel that when you graduate, in order to be more employable, you have to have that extra
edge, which you can get in university, by pushing yourself to enter the several
programmes we have in Surrey. Student Union Training and Give It a Go, are great
opportunities for you to improve your skills.
¾ I pledge that, if I do get elected, I will improve the publicising and marketing of such
programmes, as I feel that a large number of students still isn’t aware of them. I will try to
create a good buzz about these programmes, to increase participation and individual
development, as we want YOU, the students of Surrey, to be as employable as possible!
29
About Me

My name is Osama I Salih, I am a civil

Osama I Salih Green
Engineer. I am in my final year at Help the university and societies
surrey. I am responsible dedicated and
accepts responsibility. I try to put 120%
become greener and try to
effort in the work i do, i guess that is
why i personally nominated myself.
Manifesto reduce our carbon emissions

Thank you for putting your trust in me,

i hope i don’t fail you guys.

Support From Student Union (USSU)

Get Support from USSU regarding all

societies, small or big i think that we should
Why Me!!
all get the same support and also try to get
What makes me a good candidate, i have subsidising for gym memberships for all
previous experience with societies, have society members to encourage the use of
helped manage run and support societies our new facility
throughout my years at Surrey and
previously at Reading University.
President of Arabic society 2007-2008.
Currently Treasurer for Arabic Society

Willing to support students develop and Assist and Encourage

assist societies with management and
Freedom
I want to give societies the
freedom of coming up with
innovative ideas to help engage
students and assist them
throughout.
I would like to assist students and
encourage all societies to expand and
practise their cultures and ethics.
I have also had a lot of experience in my
placement year managing and assisting
projects

MY PLEDGES
Demanding a fair deal for Societies and Students
My policies are clear and simple. I am offering practical and useful solutions to
many of the problems societies face on a day-to-day business. As a former
Society President and a Treasurer I understand how frustrating getting some
minor things done can be. Here I set out what I would do if elected:
1. Create a new, easy-access fund for general society requests under £100;
open to scrutiny by societies standing.
2. Allow AGM’s to be held at anytime during the Academic Year, returning the
freedom of choice to Societies.
3. Increase the range and diversity of societies; helping strong societies to
expand, but protecting the independence of smaller and specialist ones.
4. Make Societies Standing more efficient and relevant; return its power. Stop
bringing trivial matters like name changes forward and allow it to set
policy.
Please visit my Facebook page for more details and further policies.
Find out more:
a little about me...
I am a 2nd Year Politics Student and I am
originally from Surrey. I took a couple of years out
before I came to University and have enjoyed my time
at Surrey ever since. I love the course I do and have
made some great friends who have encouraged me
to run for this position.
Like everyone I also have interests outside the
University. I was elected as a Borough Councillor and
this role has taught me invaluable leadership and
budget skills I could apply to the role for which I ask
you support. I hope that you will support me and if
you have any questions, please just ask.

Facebook: Rowan Cole I look forward to meeting you soon.

FB Campaign: Rowan Cole for VP

Societies & ID
Email: rc00056@surrey.ac.uk
 30
VP Sports

Gurkamaldeep Parmar

IWillIncreaseFundingReceived,ByLeveragingMyContactsInSeveralMajorCorporationsSponsorshipDepartments.

IWillEnsureStudentsTryingOutForUniversitySportsTeamsDoNotHaveToPayForTrials.

IWillAimToIncreaseRecreationalSportParticipation.

IWillReviewTheESP(EliteSportsProgramme)AndBringItMoreIntoLineWithLeadingSportsUniversities.

IWillLookToWorkWithTheVPofEducationAndTryToHelpAthletesWhoAreCompetingForOurUniversityEspeciallyThoseWhoCompeteInternationallyToHave
FairerDeadlinesAndMoreAcademicSupport.

IWillReviewTheProcedureOfBookingFacilities.

IWillWorkWithLOCOGAndMakeSureTheyHaveAnOnCampusPresenceToBenefitOurStudents.

IWillOrganiseAnAlumniLeagueToIncreaseTiesWithCurrentStudentsAndOurDynamicAlumniNetwork.

IWillAimToMakeSureLessGamesAreCancelledThisYear.

IWillLookToSupportTheOutreachProgrammeThatGuildfordHeatAreInvolvedIn.

IWillIncreaseMediaCoverageOfSportingAchievements.

IWillIncreaseSupporterNumbersAcrossAtleastOurBestPerformingSportsWithInnovativeIncentives,ToIncreaseSportingPrideAtOurUniversity,ThatIsDisplayedAt
RivalInstitutions.

IWillTapIntoMyPersonalNetworkToProvideOneOffSpecialCoachingForSportsTeamsAndToHelpBoostNutritional,TrainingAndTimeManagementAdviceForA
TeamsAndESP.
31
A little about me
Hi I'm Trung, a Civil
Engineering student at
Surrey. I take an interest in
many sports particularly
Cycling, Running and
Swimming and play the
saxophone (Grade 8), piano
and guitar.
Proudest moments
of my life?
Being part of the ‘Make
Poverty History’ campaign,
protesting at the G8 summit
in Scotland 2005 and cycling
from Edinburgh to my
hometown, London, in 2009
having raised £1000 for the
charity ‘Right to Play’.
About Diana
Diana is currently a final year Biomedical Science student who has always had an interest in the
welfare of other people, and shown this by the amount of voluntary work that she has undertaken
outside of her academic life. This includes working with St John Ambulance, and 'Interact', which
is a scheme working with disabled teenagers in the community. Within the St John Ambulance on


You may know that I have been heavily involved at our Students' Union already and take part in various Sports Clubs and Societies.
Mid-last year I founded the Cycling Club and have been its President since. Later my commitment to sport led me to become elected Running Club Captain.
This year I was elected Chairperson of our Union Sports Executive & Sports Standings as well as a part-time Students' Union Executive.
I have used my aforementioned experience to initiate the creation of the new, popular Volleyball Club. I have also spearheaded an alliance between our
three Triathlon Sports Clubs (Swimming, Cycling and Running) whereby we can cross-train and attend each others training sessions free of charge.
- Priority to Students at the Surrey Sports Park: Let’s not make Surrey Sports Park forget that their logo has the
‘University of Surrey’ integrated into it. I stand to ensure that the SSP keep their promise that we are their first priority; to make
sure that we are not overrun by the commercial aspects as well as the 5 pro-sports teams who share our Sports Park. I will also
campaign for membership to be at a reasonable price and ensure that it is kept at an acceptable level.
- Reduced Swimming rates for Students at the Surrey Sports Park: I will campaign for students to be able to swim
at a reduced rate at certain times of the week. Swimming is fun, a great full-body workout and easy on the joints. This would
greatly advance the recreation aspect of our Students’ Union. Consequently providing benefits not only to our Clubs but also to
non-Club and non-Surrey Sports Park members.
- More funds for Sports: The University has targets to become the top 10 UK and 100 world ranking university within the
next 10 years. Sporting achievement and student experience are crucial factors in achieving this. I plan to drive
the university to invest more into sports and support our teams in competitions. Increased participation in sports will also lead
to more funding and this is why it is crucial to capitalise my next point.
- Wider student participation and development: I have seen the benefits that sport can offer to individual
development. There are around 15,000 students at Surrey and I aspire to engage as many of us into sports and recreation. With
my experience I can give advice and assist on improving, maintaining and starting clubs. Students’ have the right to know what
sports and recreation are available to them and how they can influence change. I wish to utilise our own student led media as
well as the new website for enhanced communication.
- Club Kit and Kit Colours: This year we had problems with kit. Some arrived late and Surrey Sports Park changed the
colour scheme to white & black. This was unsuitable for many clubs and unlike our traditional colours. I will pursue for our own
colour scheme and ensure kit is delivered on time. Find me at www.Vote-Trung.weebly.com
VP Welfare









 

campus she was elected Duties Officer and this year as Chair, organising training and making
sure enough trained first aiders are around to help when needed.

What I will do
As I have enjoyed my time at University so much, my main aim as VP Welfare will be to assure that
caring and trustworthy
everyone has the same opportunities and enjoyment as I have. My work with St John Ambulance
on campus has given me a broad knowledge of how the University is structured and who to
contact for various issues.My extensive knowledge of health and safety will enable me to identify
working with you in mind
areas on campus that will need to be improved, to improve the quality of the community we all live
and work in.

Many students have been concerned recently with security within campus accommodation, and
who actually has access to their living space. I will endeavour to communicate with the various
residences and services to make sure that you feel safe and secure in your own room.

I will work with the Accommodation Office to try and make the process of finding off-campus
accommodation as easy as possible and so you have all the help and guidance you need. Also, a
lot of student have found the Arriva bus service around Guildford unreliable and inconvenient, so
I will negotiating with Arriva and the University to try and improve this service.

I will make sure the University considers those students with mobility issues, and make sure that
everyone is aware of the needs of these students by working with the Disability Advisory Forum.

I will also strive to improve the student experience by promoting healthy living on campus. Healthy
eating and knowing how to cook balanced meals is important for a healthy lifestyle, so I will ensure
that dietary advice is available, with the opportunities for learning how to cook.

Diana Fisher
at the heart
of your welfare

Vote online at vote.ussu.co.uk between Monday
March 15th 10am and Voting Closes Friday 26th 7pm
Georgina Emily Hancock
I am a final year law student and chose to run
for VP Welfare this year as I feel that I can now
offer support to all students from start to
beginning of their time at university.
In my time at University I have been active in the Student's Union for
example in my first year I refounded and was President of the RAG
society raising just under a £1000 for Marie Curie cancer care trust in its
first RAG week without funding from the Union.
In my second year I was elected to be the first Community Officer on the
Union Executive committee. In this role, I worked with the Guildford
Borough Council to implement a Student Housing accreditation scheme
to better student housing in Guildford, I attended residents groups to
help change the negative light in which students in the community are
often seen in and I attended several NUS Conferences and networked
with other university sabbatical teams to bring back fresh new ideas to
Surrey.
In my final year I was elected VP of the Law Society and I am currently a
co - project manager for the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile Guildford,
2010.
I feel that I have the ability, if elected, to support students with any
concerns, be it the fears of coming to Surrey as a fresher up to the worry
and nerves of final year exams and dissertations. If elected I would be
100% dedicated to this role, available 24/7 if needed, doing everything I
can to make the student experience a positive one for all!
Vote GEORGINA EMILY HANCOCK [1] as your
VP WELFARE
32
My Aims…
Health Centre: It is my belief that there is a lot of dissatisfaction with the centre from
making appointments to availability of staff. I would look to set up a focus group or
survey to understand what it is the students really wanted looking at a range of topics
from the opening hours to the standard of care.
Manor Park: I would endeavour to make sure that students living at Manor Park are
not getting the short straw on health care. When you are ill you do not want to have
to trek to campus for help, I would look at the viability of there being a mobile service
where a doctor or nurse could spend a few hours treating students saving them the
hassle of getting to the main campus.
Building works/housing: I will make sure that the access around campus does not
become difficult such as longer walks or uneven surfaces such as those around the
library currently. I would start by making sure that students in university
accommodation are not disturbed too much and warned in advance and also making
sure that students get the right information to help them to move into private rented
accommodation, looking at a range of issues such as security, deposits and quality of
the house.
Volunteering: I believe that Volunteering is positive on every level, to those
volunteering and to those being helped. 73% of employers would employ a candidate
with volunteering experience over one without (Timebank) and I would like to
promote volunteering more to students as well as look into more nationally
recognized awards to offer students to take part in.
Student Finance: I will do my best to make sure that if there is a crisis in 2010/2011
year that students are aware of the support they can receive such as the hardship
fund as well as making sure current students re-apply early.
Integration: I will do my best to making sure that all students whether you are a GSA,
International Mature or a Disabled student receive the same opportunities and
choices as well as being represented at all levels of the Union.
Continuing… Promoting Welfare issues in The Stag and GU2 in order to promote
information and give students the chance to give me feedback about issues that are
important to them by being visible on campus and approachable.

Vote Noemi [1]

VP Welfare
About Me:
Before I tell you about why I want to be VP Welfare,
let me tell you a little bit about myself. I'm currently
in my second year of studying Politics. I'm a Mother,
a wife, an international and mature student who has
a passion for representing and helping those who are
in need. I feel that my passion will be best served by
being YOUR VP Welfare.
Helping Prevent Issues Before They Arise
I want to increase the level of active campaigning on
campus. We need to raise the profile of campaigns
on campus because it is important for students to
get their voices heard. The Union should be prioritis-
ing important issues such as sexual health all year
around, not just for a week. I don't just care about
your health for one week of the year I care about your
health all year around. With that in mind I want:
- A proactive relationship with the Student
Wellbeing and Health Centre.
- To prioritise taboo subjects such as bullying
and mental health. It is the responsibility of the VP
Welfare to promote awareness of important issues,
regardless of how fashionable they are and offer
sound advice and support to students who are in
need.
- Create a resource centre within the students
union, with information on subjects that affect stu-
dents. This would be easily available and accessible
to all students on Campus.
On Accommodation:
Accommodation on campus is an issue that is close
to all students hearts. Students want affordable,
well maintained accommodation on campus as well
as excellent and accessible facilities for all to use.
With that in mind I will:
- Lobby for more affordable campus accom-
modation
- Work with local authorities to secure im-
proved standards of accommodation off campus
- Launch a campaign for an improved bus
service.
- Fight for a 24 hour laundry service on cam-
pus.
Your Concerns, Our Priorities.
All sabbatical officers exist to work for students.
That is exactly what I would do as your VP Welfare,
work and fight for your interests. I will:
- Regularly consult with students about the is-
sues that concern you. I will hold a regular surgery
EVERY WEEK. The days and times will be widely pub-
licised
- Provide a strong and passionate student
voice at Executive meetings, putting students wel-
fare at the top of the agenda
- Reach out to groups that are currently under-
represented, such as international students, student
parents, mature students and disabled students.
- Maintain a good working relationship with
Societies and Welfare amenities. They form the
backbone of our Union. Strong societies and ameni-
ties result in more opportunities for students
Working for you.
I believe that the VP welfare should continually
strive, with passion and commitment to make a sig-
nificant difference to the lives of all students on and
off campus. If you elect me to serve you, I will never
stop working on your behalf, I will never stop reach-
ing out to the underrepresented and I will never stop
speaking up on the issues that you care about.

Vote Noemi [1] the Well-fairy

33
25
7<-
:7?)6 >8?-4.):-
>

416/ 5)61.-;<7
 more rewards for students
if you give to the union - expect the union to
give more back to you.

 better communication
brand new, modern and ‘easy to use’ website to
unite the union and its members, and also to
keep a beady eye on your sabbs work.

 pure action
no fuss, drama or politics; just pure action.
expect students’ good fortune,
health, happiness and prosperity
to be top prioirty.

>8?-4.):-:-,-.16-,
Tamsin For VP Welfare
My name is Tamsin MacLellan and I am a second year International Politics student.

If elected:

x I will aim to improve the poor lighting on and around campus.

x I will campaign and fundraise for more water
fountains/dispensers to be installed on campus.
x I will also campaign and fundraise for improved disabled
access on campus; although access is not as limited as some think, there is still a lot that
needs to be improved.

Whether it’s baking for charity cake sales or watching movies with Onslow Village Brownies I try and help out with as much as
possible, both on and off campus. Creative with ideas, positive and outspoken; I always stand my ground. If elected I will represent
all Surrey students’ needs and be there to offer whatever help and advice is needed; ranging from something as small as where
Amigo’s is, to how to deal with an uncooperative landlord. I’m motivated and enthusiastic about everything I do and this will be no
exception.

“Tamsin is approachable and understanding and someone who you can definitely count on for good advice”
Frances Boswell, Maths UG
 34

Zoe Papadopoulos
VICE PRESIDENT WELFARE 2010/2011

Kate Barker (Proposer) “She’s helped me through my time at University; let her help you through yours.”
For the past four years Surrey University has been my home, but as I am now coming to the end of my degree on the Law course, I
would really like the opportunity to give something back, something that would ensure the experience was as enjoyable for other
students as it was for me.
Having been personally involved and dedicated in maintaining and developing a sports team, namely the rugby club, I understand
the importance of working together, friendship and community within the student lifestyle and this understanding has given me the
passion and drive to run for this position.
I believe as a Welfare Officer I would have an open mind and my main aim would be to connect with students from all backgrounds
and make sure that every students’ welfare is guaranteed. I have the motivation and drive to ensure that every student releases
their full potential while being at Surrey University and I will do everything in my power to represent your interests and achieve our
common goals and ideals. There are several ways I would go about this, and they are outlined in my pledges below.

My pledges:
x To provide a Welfare Pack that will be handed out during Freshers’ Week to help new students settle into University life with all
the relevant information about preserving their welfare. It will include information on general welfare, sexual health advice, drug /
alcohol abuse, eating disorders, housing / money problems, environmental issues and tips and advice from current students /
past students, for example, what facilities they made the most of that helped release their full potential at the university.
x To promote the significance and importance of sexual health awareness, providing free condoms and information and advice
about where you can go to get checked. This is also advantageous to the promotion of good mental and physical health of the
student; this will include improving the resources available within the Students’ Union.
x To work closely with Student Support, Advice and Services to ensure all students settle into University life and feel comfortable
in their own surroundings, with the help of as many university services as possible to aid them in this. This is important as many
new students may need help and advice when dealing with the transgression from home life to University life but are afraid of
coming to the Union office with certain problems.
x To guarantee that the views and voices of the student body are fully heard in the Students Union and are dealt with in good
time, as soon as humanly possible. The one thing that students cannot afford when doing a degree is a delay or slow production
of services and resources.
 Epsom Downs Racecourse
Saturday 15th May
colours
ball
2010
Tickets NOW on sale
from the Activities Office in the Students’ Union
See you in a fortnight!