Full name: Arifa Abid
Age: 30
Course & year of study: CELTA – The Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Give us your pitch! Why do you want the job and why should students vote for you?
I am interested in the educational officer role at Sheffield University because I am enthusiastic about improving the academic experience for students. I am dedicated to creating a supportive learning environment and advocating for student needs. My goal is to help students succeed in their studies and personal development. I believe students should vote for me because I am committed to amplifying their voices, addressing their concerns through various initiatives, and ultimately enhancing their educational experience at Sheffield University.
With an unlimited budget, what one thing would you do to improve higher education in the UK?
If I had all the money in the world, I would create amazing scholarship and financial aid programmes so that every deserving student could attend college,no matter how much money they have. That way, we could reduce student debt, make sure everyone gets a fair shot, and give people the chance to follow their dreams without worrying about money.
Why do you believe a degree-level education is important?
In simpler terms, having a degree-level education is very important because it gives people the knowledge, skills, and ability to think critically, which are all necessary to do well in today’s complicated and competitive world. It helps people access different job opportunities, improves personal growth, and encourages continuous learning throughout life. Moreover, education also helps people move up in society, allowing them to reach their aspirations and make valuable contributions to the community.
Three words to describe yourself?
Adaptable, empathetic, and diligent.
Who would play you in a film of your life?
While it’s flattering to consider, I don’t believe there’s one specific actor who could accurately portray my life. Each person’s journey is unique, shaped by a multitude of experiences, emotions, and relationships that are difficult to capture on screen. Additionally, my life continues to evolve, making it even more challenging for any actor to fully embody who I am.
What’s the best city in the UK (don’t be boring, you can’t say Sheffield)?
Edinburgh, with its rich history which dates back over a thousand years, and with its origin rooted in early mediaeval times.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Unwinding with a soothing spa day or indulging in a relaxing massage is one of my many guilty pleasures.
You can time travel to any year in history anywhere in the world. Where, when and why?
If I could time travel, I would choose to visit Renaissance Florence in the early 16th century. This period was a hub of artistic, cultural, and intellectual flourishing, with luminaries like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael at the height of their creative powers. I would love to witness firsthand the birth of masterpieces, engage in philosophical discussions with the great minds of the time, and immerse myself in the vibrant atmosphere of artistic innovation and humanistic thought that defined the Renaissance.
Film or music? Favourite film/ artist depending on your answer?
It’s hard to choose one because I’m fond of both music and films and it’s even harder to choose a single film or one artist because there are many. But one of my all-time favourite movies is The Lord of the Rings. The trilogy offers a rich and immersive fantasy world filled with intricate plots, compelling characters, and epic battles, captivating audiences with its grandeur and depth. Moreover, the band Backstreet Boys evokes nostalgia for a bygone era of pop music, representing a cherished part of my youth and providing a soundtrack to memorable moments in my life.
Keep one. Henderson’s relish, mayonnaise or ketchup?
I love to cook so I’ll choose Henderson’s relish as it adds flavour to meat, fish and vegetables and is even used for salad dressing.
Given the choice … pub, club or coffee shop? & Name your favourite pub/ club/ cafe in Sheffield depending on your answer.
Coffee shop; however, haven’t been in Sheffield.
What’s your meal deal? Not Tesco-exclusive, you can be edgy and pick a different shop …
Steaks in mushroom sauce with coke.
Which living person do you most admire and why?
My father for his support and guidance throughout my life.
What’s your favourite thing about Sheffield?
My tutors!