Hi! My name is Elena Weidinger (she/her) and I’m currently a first-year fashion marketing and consumer behaviour student at the London College of Fashion. I’m half-Japanese and half-Austrian. 

I'm standing for the school rep position to begin my journey in making a positive change at our school. When students experience discomfort or concern, I will work to make sure those voices are heard. After all, “the purpose of university is to make students safe for ideas - not ideas safe for students” - Clark Kerr. 

If I were to get elected the top 3 issues I’d tackle first are:

• Classroom atmospheres → improve interior decor to motivate and stimulate, invest in movement chairs, etc. 

• The social divide between colleges → host more intercollege events

• Lack of interaction between international students and home students → initiate programmes that encourage students of different backgrounds to sit and chat with one another

What personal qualities will I bring to the role?: 

• Open-mindedness

• Adaptability fostered by an international upbringing

• A balance of creative and analytical skills

• Passion to represent underrepresented groups of people

• Asssertive in getting thoughts/opinions across

Why the wider School Rep team would be better with me in it:

Despite the awareness of the issues I want to tackle, I look at the bright side and always aim to bring positivity to the table. I love getting involved with the institution I’m associated with and always prioritise getting the voices of students heard; as I have done in my previous high school’s student council. Additionally, I believe the knowledge I have built up in my past extracurriculars qualifies me as a reliable and efficient team member. 

Of course, as a first-year student, my experience at UAL is limited but this is why I am starting here by applying for this role. I am genuine in all that I do so please do vote for me! Vote for Elena!