What's your name and what course do you study?
Hi, I'm Aleynah, a third year MSci Adult & Mental Health Nursing student, and I'm excited to be representing Reading this year. Last year, I was the School Rep for London, and I quickly realised how powerful it can be when students' voices are not only heard but acted upon. That experience showed me how much of a difference representation can make, and it's what inspired me to continue as a Rep.
Why did you decide to become a school rep?
Becoming a School Rep is about more than sitting in meetings (although very important!), it’s also about building trust, making sure you, as students, feel comfortable sharing your experiences, and then working hard to turn that feedback into positive change. Nursing and Allied Healthcare courses are rewarding but also challenging, and I know from my own journey that it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. That's why I want to create spaces where everyone is supported, included, and valued and to make sure no one feels they have to face those challenges alone.
What do you hope to achieve in this role?
This year, my focus is on strengthening our sense of community in Reading by celebrating our achievements as students while also communicating feedback. My goal is to ensure that feedback doesn't just stay in meetings but translates into improvements that genuinely enhance our student life.
How do you plan to represent and support students in your school?
I plan to represent you by being approachable, proactive, and committed to advocating for your needs. Whether through conversations via email or telephone, feedback forums, or everyday interactions, I want you to feel supported, included, and confident that your experiences matter.
Outside of my role, I enjoy keeping active, I'm learning Spanish, and I'm always exploring new ways to keep me balanced. These personal interests remind me every day that looking after ourselves is just as important as looking after each other.