Nikola Nowak - Languages, Cultures and Linguistics & ACIS Department President

As an applicant for the LCL President, I strongly believe that student representation is especially important at a time when language and linguistics courses are increasingly under threat at other UK universities. It is vital that students in our department continue to have an active voice and feel supported in our academic community. I have recently been on my year abroad which I believe has had a significant impact on the way I approach communication and challenges, helping me become more adaptable, understanding, and confident when working with different people and perspectives. It also showed me how important effective communication between students and staff is in creating a positive university experience. I believe Southampton already has a strong relationship between students and the department, but this is something that can always be strengthened further. I would like every student to feel comfortable sharing concerns and to feel confident that there are clear opportunities for communication with the university.