We spoke to Anbu Jagadeesan, Activities Officer for 2024/5, about his background, plans for the role, and top tips for students. Visit the news page to learn about this year's full officer team!
I’m Anbu, the new Activities Officer. I'm currently taking a break from studying my BSc in Computer Science.
I have a passion for technology which inspired me to pursue Computer Science. I also enjoy playing sports and writing poetry—both of which help me stay balanced, focused, and creative.
I ran to be a student officer because I’m passionate about creating positive change and ensuring that every student’s voice is heard. I saw an opportunity to advocate for the needs of my peers, improve student life, and work on initiatives that really make a difference on campus. It’s a chance to give back and shape the experience of future students.
What are your main plans and objectives this year?
My main plans for this year are:
Rebuilding student groups: I believe that many of our student groups are not yet meeting their potential. To tackle this, I want to offer training for student group leaders, educate them on how to run events, and make them understand their roles and responsibilities as student group leaders.
Celebrating cultural events: I think there is an issue with cultural integration, where students are not understanding the significance of cultural events and not celebrating them. To solve this I think we should have more engaging cultural events and promote events more widely. We should also work with different student groups to plan events, and make sure they are open and welcoming to everyone.
Creating student-led media: Currently there is no centralised platform for student voices, a lack of communication skills, and limited awareness of campus events and issues. I believe it would be beneficial to start and support student-led media like newspapers or radio, offer training on creating media, and encourage students to share their stories.
By the end of my time as Activities Officer, I hope to increase student engagement, introduce new initiatives that reflect the diverse interests of our student body, and leave behind a legacy of sustainable programmes that future students can continue to enjoy and build upon.
What is your favourite thing about being a student at UEL?
My favourite thing about being a student at UEL is the sense of community and support. The University is a collaborative environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together, and there are lots of opportunities for personal and professional development.
The library is my favourite place on campus, because it has been an important part of my personal and professional journey.
Any top tips for students? How can new students ensure they have the best start to their time here?
Prioritise time management, stay active, and take regular breaks to avoid burnout. Don’t hesitate to seek support when needed and make time for self-care. Get involved in campus activities, and always take advantage of student discounts.
I also recommend getting organised early, attending orientation events, and familiarising themselves with campus resources. Engaging with student groups helps build connections, while prioritising time management and self-care will keep them balanced.
Why do you think students should get involved with the Students’ Union?
Students should get involved with the Students' Union because it offers a unique opportunity to shape their university experience, build leadership and networking skills, and make meaningful connections. By participating in student groups and events, students can explore their interests, advocate for their needs, have fun and contribute to our campus community.
Before becoming an officer, I was actively involved in the Students' Union through student groups. I served as the Finance Officer of the Tamil Society and regularly attended events organised by the Students' Union. This experience allowed me to develop leadership skills, connect with a diverse group of students, and gain a deeper understanding of how the organisation operates, all of which have been invaluable in my current role.