I am starting the the third year of my PhD at Anglia Ruskin and I would love the opportunity to give something back to the PGR community by representing and supporting PGR students as AHSS reps have done in previous years. As a third year student I understand the importance of receiving clear information about postgraduate study, effective training sessions and opportunities which compliment our studies including conferences and workshops.

I have recently attended the PGR Welcome Buddy training and I am looking forward to welcoming and helping new students to settle in and thrive during their studies. During the last two years I have met a large number of PGR students and I regularly engage with my fellow students. I would be confident in asking students for their ideas and feedback on how to improve the PGR experience and in reporting these findings in order to make positive changes.

During the lockdown period I helped to arrange a virtual writing retreat for PGR students during which I presented on engaging with the postgraduate research community at Anglia Ruskin. These retreats allow students to come together to work and network either face-to-face or virtually and offer students the opportunity to practice their presenting skills and share their knowledge on particular aspects of PGR life. I would be keen to continue helping to organise similar events for PGR students and to hear from students on how else they could be supported with their studies.

I have been writing for the Ruskin Journal for the past two years and the experience has been invaluable in terms of taking time out from my studies and networking with other students. I would recommend joining a society or sports team to other PGR students looking to meet new people and make the most of their time at Anglia Ruskin. 

I would be grateful for the opportunity to represent PGR students and to contribute to the exciting research community at Anglia Ruskin.