Let's Thrive,

Together.

Sanjna for VP of Masters

GISA 2023

As a first year ANSO student, I want to represent both disciplinary and MINT programmes/tracks equally. I aim to bridge the gap in engagement between various programmes and the institute.

We have invested significant amounts of labour, time and resources to receive a master’s education here. While pushing for more equitable policies on housing and welfare together with GISA, my specific focus is on improving our academic experience.

Below is a condensed version of the specific goals I want to achieve.

Please write to me on sanjna.yechareddy@graduateinstitute.ch so we can continue these conversations on how to make this space better.

What can we realistically achieve?

Academics

• Organizing Open Forums for each track/programme every semester where Class Representatives, professors and administrators can have transparent discussions with all students
• Pushing for review and reform of compulsory courses, ARPs, workshops and 3 credit courses of all programmes with class representatives

• Advocating for diversifying curricula and the inclusion of diverse voices in our syllabi

• Advocating for regular support (rather than one-off workshops) in academic writing in English and French
  

What can we realistically achieve?

Student welfare

• Working with the Welfare Committee to create to create long lasting peer-to-peer support networks, similar to ones which operate during breaks

• Reviving regular GISA town halls where GISA board members regularly interact with students to foster engagement with GISA
  

• Establishing strong channels of communication with Student Support Services and Admissions Office to advocate for student welfare together

• Co-ordinating with the housing committee to ensure issues related to housing contracts and accommodation charges are communicated to institute’s administration as well as academic heads

what Makes me qualified to do this?

My approach is one driven by the need for collaboration.

I have experience working with a number of student societies at the University of Edinburgh. I also come with professional experience working with NGOs, archives, museums and cultural centres.

I know how to build bridges between various actors in a system to work together.

Last semester, I worked with the Welfare Committee to assist with communications.

We need a candidate who is able to listen and understand problems of diverse communities and programmes at the institute.

We need a voice driven by empathy and care.

I believe I can be this candidate to serve our student community.