As part of our mission to work in meaningful collaborative ways with diverse students, INKC is involved with organising the APP Student Collaborative Group (SCG). The incredible students are at the heart of this work and we wanted to share a little about who we have the pleasure of working with on this project.

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

Chairing and being part of this group allows me to work with fellow students and university stakeholders to identify barriers, propose solutions, and implement initiatives that support a more accessible and supportive learning environment for everyone.

As a sabbatical officer, I am passionate about fostering positive change within the university. I see the potential for this group to make a meaningful impact on the university’s policies and practices, ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have equal opportunities to thrive academically. By actively participating in the Access and Participation Student Collaborative Group, I aim to be a catalyst for positive change and an advocate for a more inclusive and accessible educational experience.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

As a member of the Student Collaborative Group, I aim to foster inclusivity, support mentorship programs, and collaborate with university stakeholders to create a welcoming and equitable educational environment.

Tell us something about yourself!

I was a TV news presenter in local TV station!

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I wanted to help other students like me who might be nervous sharing their voice. I know how it feels to not always have your needs met in education, and I want to make sure this doesn’t happen to anyone else.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I would like to create a plan that supports and represents students from all walks of life, making uni an environment that is accessible and enjoyable for all

Tell us something about yourself!

My favourite hobby is crocheting! So far my favourite things I’ve made are a blanket and a stuffed koala 🙂

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

As a visually impaired student I felt that I could provide significant insight into the life of a disabled student. I also feel really strongly about equality because of bias that I have faced in my life, and I want others not to have to face this.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I would like to make sure that other people never have to experience the challenges I faced when I moved to university.

Tell us something about yourself!

I’m a member of the University’s Caledonian Society (Scottish Country Dancing) and its the best part of my week!

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

When inequity prevents equal access and participation, it’s not just the marginalised groups that miss out, but society as a whole. I’m a strong believer in promoting diversity, especially in higher education. As a disabled student from the global south, I’ve seen a lot of these barriers to equitable education first-hand, and I want to do my part in helping break down these barriers.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

Campaigning for disabled students is something I’m particularly passionate about – I want to work towards forming a system that supports disabled students regardless of their diagnosis status or the complexity of their support needs.

Tell us something about yourself!

I play wheelchair basketball

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

My biggest motivation is the profound commitment to addressing underrepresentation and fostering an inclusive academic environment. This approach aligns with my strong belief in the power of diverse voices and perspectives to drive positive change. The Student Collaborative Group offers a platform where I can leverage my skills and insights to contribute to strategic, impactful change in the university community.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

As a member of the Student Collaborative Group, my primary goal is to actively contribute to the development and implementation of transformative strategies within the Access and Participation Plans (APP). Additionally, I aim to collaborate with fellow group members to continually address the unique challenges faced by underrepresented student groups throughout their academic journey. This involves continually evaluating and refining the effectiveness of interventions, fostering an inclusive and supportive university environment that ensures equitable opportunities for all students.

Tell us something about yourself!

Massive fan of snowboarding! Had the incredible opportunity to be at the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympics as an interpreter.

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I wanted to be part of a group of people who could give their opinions and improve the aspect of inclusivity at Newcastle University.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I hope to allow students who come from the same background as me to find easier access to higher education.

Tell us something about yourself!

I’m passionate about programming and creating software tools for people. I like reading and cooking, plus I love martial arts like boxing!

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I wanted to contribute to bringing equity for all students and improve their university experience.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

University students to be given resources and help to excel based on their needs that are actually voiced by students.

Tell us something about yourself!

I am a big Swiftie

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I wanted to help shape university’s approach for next years. As the LGBTQ+ Officer I also wanted to ensure equal access and participation from LGBTQ+ students.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I’d like to make sure we can deliver student-led changes to the way University acts to make sure everyone has equal opportunities

Tell us something about yourself!

It’s currently my 5th year at Newcastle University (3 years of BA, 2 years of part time MA) so I think it’s fair to say I know the University inside out now!

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I was eager to be a part of the Student Collaborative Group as I feel so strongly about improving the Educational Experiences of underrepresented groups. I suffer strong several Learning Difficulties such as Dyslexia as well as mental health disorders, making me an enthusiast to be a voice for the students in these areas to improve everyone’s experience. As well as this I take the role of a carer so strive to bring light to small groups of students that aren’t so easily identified.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I would like to be a part of making Newcastle University a more accepting and helpful place for current and prospective students. achieving any small change that helps students to feel more suited with life skills and a helping hand throughout their education would be a win for this Student Collaborative Group.

Tell us something about yourself!

I adore hedgehogs and my life goal is to make a massive hedgehog mansion to house a hedgehog called Benedict!

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I wanted to join the Student Collaborative Group because I saw it as an opportunity to have a positive impact on student experience, and more specifically, the experience of students who are confronted by inequalities of opportunity.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I would like to contribute to the development of a plan which takes into consideration the challenges faced by international students as well – although they are not explicitly included in the category of underrepresented groups.

Tell us something about yourself!

I love collecting flowers and leaves for my herbarium. ?

Why did you want to be part of the Student Collaborative Group?

I wanted to be a part of the Student Collaborative Group as it would benefit my professional development as well as my personal fulfilment through collaborative endeavours. Being part of this group grants me opportunities to engage in discussions and projects, that expands my knowledge and builds meaningful connections with both students and staff.

What would you like to achieve as part of the Student Collaborative Group?

As part of the Student Collaborative Group, mine and my peers main goal is to collaborate with other students and staff to identify and solve hardships that disadvantaged students face. By discussing issues openly and involving staff, this would help to make the university a better and more supportive place for everyone. The focus is on practical solutions and making sure students get the support they need, from removing barriers in order to optimise students education to the fullest amount.

Tell us something about yourself!

I love travelling ✈️ my goal in life is to travel around the world, and hopefully learn more languages (My Duolingo streak says other wise)