7 Questions with Rothna Akhtar

What are you studying and when do you graduate?

I studied BA History and graduated in 2018.

Why are you interested in this subject and what do you plan to do in the future?

I have always loved History and have found it incredibly insightful and helpful for my own personal growth. As a discipline, the subject allows you to explore different perspectives on matters that have occurred in the past, allowing you to express your own perspective and really engage with historical scholarship and key debates. In doing so, I find that you learn valuable impartiality skills which helps you develop a critical thinking outlook and for me this is a tool for life. 

My future is still undecided and I don’t know exactly what career path I will be taking, but I intend on doing something which creates positive change for individuals, creating change in their lives that is impactful and long-lasting. 

What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at UCL?

Taking part in Students’ Union UCL’s Leadership Elections and now being the Welfare and International Officer is one of the most interesting and yet beneficial things I have ever done while being at UCL. This role has enabled me to begin my journey to creating impactful change, something I’ve always wanted to do. One way in which I have done this is through my involvement with the stress-free zone on campus. 

I have organised a new chill out space for people to relax in, take a breather, study if needed to but most importantly rest during the exam period. It is in the Wilkins Garden Room, running Monday–Friday from 8am–9pm. I will also be there every Wednesday from 1–2pm to answer any questions or provide any support or advice needed.

Have you discovered any hidden gems during your time at UCL?

One of the biggest hidden gems I have discovered would be the Stress Free Zone! Last year I never actually knew it existed until I had practically finished my degree! The space is great for some quiet time whether that be by yourself or with some friends. The space has tables and chairs should you want to use the space to study when the libraries are full. There’s also beanbags for you to relax on!

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London.

1. The food! One of the best things in London is definitely the food, from Malaysian dishes to Indian, there is a restaurant for every craving! 
2. Visit Camden Market; it’s super cool and has funky stalls from arts and crafts to clothes and food!
3. If you feel overwhelmed with studies, stressed, need a nap or just simply need to chill out, then head over to the Garden Room for a well needed break! 

If you were Provost for the day what one thing would you do?

I would make sure that students’ health and wellbeing is the number one priority at the university. From bettering the welfare provisions available on campus to providing more spaces like the Stress Free Zones for students to relax in. Ultimately, I would make sure that all students at UCL felt included but most important of all, supported and valued. 

Who inspires you and why?

Rather than a specific individual, I’d like to say that what inspires me the most are people who always make the best of an unfortunate situation. The people who are disadvantaged in a situation or encounter barriers and struggles and yet they still power through life and make the best of their situation, turning the negative into a positive.