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Sanya Saleem and Nichole Dunne-Watts

Scroll down for more information about events and to learn about your Student Advisers.

Sanya Saleem student adviser photo

What I do

Hi, I’m Sanya. I am one of the Student Advisers for the Faculty of Medical Sciences and the Student Adviser for Faculty of Population Health Sciences. I am here for you as a key point of contact during the first year of your undergraduate studies. I am available to discuss any wellbeing, support, and student experience matters.

Contact me via askUCL

Book an appointment

Who am I?

About Sanya

What was your experience of further or higher education like?

My experience of higher education was liberating! I learnt a lot about myself and the world, and most importantly that you can have fun alongside studying (who would have ever thought?!) 

Who or what made the biggest positive impact on you when you were studying? And how did they support you?

My mum always told me that if I failed at something, “it’s okay, and try again!” She also always folded my books away when I fell asleep over them studying! 

What working achievements or initiatives are you most proud of?

I developed an NHS training programmes for managers working in A&E to better manage the mental health of their employees. Doctors reported boosted morale and managers reported increased productivity and fewer work errors. This training was then expanded across the trust, and we saw reduced absenteeism and sick leave. 

If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?

You are a miracle who is capable of so much more than you could ever imagine! 

What would it surprise people to know about you?

Prince William shook my hand! So, I am basically royalty now!

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What I do

Hi, I’m Nichole. I am one of the Student Advisers for the Faculty of Medical Sciences. I am here for you as a key point of contact during the first year of your undergraduate studies. I am available to discuss any wellbeing, support, and student experience matters.

Contact me via askUCL

Book an appointment

Who am I?

About Nichole

What was your experience of Further/Higher Education?

It was up and down really. Even though I felt alone at times I loved the socialising aspect of university. Choosing to study a professional teaching course, I started university with a very clear career path in mind. I had a few things going on in my personal life which impacted my studies and made me reevaluate, so I ended up making the decision to change my course (and chosen career) two years in and it was undoubtedly the best decision I made back then for my wellbeing.

What do you like most about your work as a Student Adviser?

I’m still new to the role so watch this space! But I imagine it will be building rapport with first year students and working closely with other teams to provide the best possible support students deserve so they can succeed (in and outside of university). It is so important students are helped with their transition to university life because it’s not always easy! Having someone to talk through my student experience and wellbeing and empowering me to work through any challenges is something I felt I would have hugely benefited from when I studied all those years ago.

“It is astonishing how elements that seem insoluble become soluble when someone listens”. - Carl Rogers

What's a surprising or interesting fact about yourself?

My go to karaoke song is Hakuna Matata from the Lion King. I cannot sing a single note though! I have been banned from singing (they call it strained cat noises) from friend’s cars and have been told I have the worst karaoke voice ever. It doesn’t deter me as I still love “singing”! I also used to be able to play Hakuna Matata on the piano and write rap songs. Maybe I should take this up again in my spare time?!

Events

Working within the Student Support and Wellbeing team, we will be hosting a range of events and activities during term time to support your Social bonding, Skills for life and Wellbeing at university. Explore the workshops and activities you can join throughout the academic year listed below, then click the event hyperlink to reserve your place. 

Term 1: September 25th - December 15th 2023
Your guide to Thrive - Maskulinity; Breaking Barriers event - 21st November @ 19:00

Come along to our two hour in person Maskulinity event taking place in the Jeremy Bentham Room, WC1E 6BT. Refreshments will be provided. This event will be taking a second look at Male Mental Health this Movember, and we will hear presentations from 4 guest speakers. 

Term 2: January 8th - March 22nd 2024
BEAT THE JANUARY BLUES - JANUARY GAINS - 24TH JANUARY @ 12-2PM (DROP IN)

Feel prepared for the year ahead with our top tips, support and advice on a range of areas, including careers in life sciences, volunteering, housing, money management, time-management, supporting your mental health, and more! Happening in Room 731, IOE Building, 20 Bedford Way. For catering purposes, please register your interest here.

EXAM SEASON TOOLKIT - GET ASSESSMENT READY - 20th march @ 12-2pm i, Room G15 - Public Cluster, DMS Watson Building (SIGN UP required)

This workshop will cover everything you need to get ready for your exam in May. Including guidance for examinations, study environments, revision and planning techniques, managing your time effectively, understanding stress, and pressure and tips for overcoming common challenges such as distractions, procrastination, and perfectionism. There will also be time for some fun, social activities such as candle making, plant pot decorating, embroidery and games! There will be some free goodies you can take away with you to help prioritise your wellbeing. This session is for year 1 Medical School students. For catering purposes, please register your interest here.

Term 3: April 22nd - June 7th 2024

More information coming soon.