Student Case Study #16 Sirwan Faraj
ADBE Course Rep 2021
When did you first get involved with NTSU, and how did this come about?
In October, I received a couple of emails from the Students’ Union about the academic Rep positions and nominated myself to be a Course Rep. I have now been in the role for about five months.
What impact has it had on your experience at NTU?
It has helped me a lot in communicating with friends from the school of architecture and design. Being able to exchange ideas has helped me to hear different people’s perspectives.
Has being involved with the SU helped you feel part of a community?
Of course. Getting involved with the SU encouraged me to stand on my own feet and be more confident. Working with so many different types of students has helped me to understand the issues they face.
Has it affected your studies in any way?
It has made my studies much easier. Dealing with student issues as a course rep, you learn many new things you didn’t know before. I have found students who are working on similar projects to me and being able to discuss our ideas together has helped us with our work.
Has it helped you to prepare for Life after university?
Yes. Once I finish university, I will likely join a new team when I take a job. Now I know how to deal with group situations and appreciate different people’s perspectives. I have had lots of conversations with many students and staff within the SU, which has helped me feel comfortable about communicating with people in my future career.
Do you feel that NTSU has done enough to support students throughout the COVID-19 pandemic?
100%. They always keep you updated through emails. They have also given lots of advice and information right through the lockdown. If people have a problem, they will always try to sort it out, even in this pandemic.
What is the best thing you have gotten out of being involved with NTSU?
Last year, I got a lot of complaints from third year students who needed to access the lab, which was not open, to do their work. I conveyed their concerns to the Students’ Union, who solved the issue within a couple of days. The students came back and thanked me resolving their issue so quickly, but I couldn’t have done it without the su’s help.
Would you recommend getting involved with NTSU to other Postgraduate students?
Yes, indeed. The su is great for developing confidence in yourself, especially for people who don’t have a strong network. You are there to help other people, but you are helping yourself at the same time.
