Hello!

It has been a really busy semester with lots of events, campaigns and important meetings. I hope you have enjoyed all of the activities that your Union has prepared to support you. 😌

It is my priority to ensure that everything I do is communicated to you, so that you understand my work to represent you. You can check out my monthly updates at @ussu_vpvoice, detailing all the meetings I’ve attended, campaigns I’ve led and events I’ve organised.

As we reach the end of Semester 1, I wanted to share my highlights, which you can read here: VP Voice Semester 1 Highlights. This document explains what I’ve been working on for the past few months and how I’ve progressed on my Manifesto so far. You elected me in February 2024 to achieve my goals and vision for the Union and Voice Zone which are detailed in my Manifesto.

Celebrating International Students’ Day 

Here are some of my highlights: 

  • Hosted two Course Rep Socials and a Head Rep Social – lots of opportunities to network
  • Re-launched Course Rep of the Month with over 28 nominations – celebrating student success
  • Introduced three Student Curator Projects in collaboration with societies to celebrate the diversity of our student community
  • Launched International Meet & Greet and International Working Group – representing and support our international students
  • Spoke to our MP Zoe Franklin during her visit to the Union about support for international students (E.g. guarantors and changes in BRPs)
  • Interviewed and recruited our two Student Trustees who represent your voices during the Union’s Board of Trustees
             Course Rep Social – November 2024

I’m very proud of the work I’ve done in collaboration with my Sabb team, my Voice Zone team, and everyone at the Union and University who has supported me. It has been an amazing journey representing you as your VP Voice, and having the opportunity to raise your voices on important issues like Placements, Personal Tutors, Housing, International Student Support, Employability, and more.

Here is to many more events, campaigns and celebrations in Semester 2! Surrey Decides, our annual election process to select the next officer team to lead the Union in 25-26, is right around the corner. If you’re thinking of putting yourself forward as a candidate, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Sabbs to discuss your vision. 

Celebrating Disability & Neurodivergence Awareness Month with AutiSoc

As always, if there’s anything you’d like to ask or have a chat about, feel free to email me at ussu.vpvoice@surrey.ac.uk or message me at @ussu_vpvoice. 😉

It is my job to listen to you and share your thoughts with Senior University Leadership to make real change, so whether you are having issues with your course or have ideas on what the University can do to improve student life, don’t hesitate to reach out to me.

Best wishes,

Luana Vasconcelos
Vice-President Voice 24-25
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