Photo of Rithika Gopikrishna

Rithika Gopikrishna

Postgraduate Taught Representation Chair

If elected, I will deliver on five core pillars:

  1. The 'Day Zero' Transition: I will establish a 'First-Week Buddy System' for international students to ease the daunting process of moving to a new country. Students will be paired with existing peers or alumni for immediate, hands-on help navigating SIM cards, bank accounts, and local transport.
  2. Alumni Support: In a fast-paced one-year master's, navigating the rapid job search, career paths, and research directions is incredibly stressful. I will push for immediate access to an active alumni directory, empowering us to tap into the alumni network for timely career advice, job referrals, startup mentorship and research guidance.
  3. Demystifying UK Academics: The shift to the UK's independent study model is a leap. I will push for course directors to embed faculty-led 'Study Strategy Sessions' into our first two weeks, and demand transparency so grading metrics are clear immediately.
  4. Combating Imposter Syndrome: I will lobby faculties to introduce mandatory "practice" assignments early in the term. Receiving clear, constructive feedback before final graded exams clarifies expectations and builds academic confidence.
  5. Integrated Cohort Trips: I will lobby faculties to integrate an annual cohort trip into the timetable with no clashing classes to build lasting bonds and relieve academic pressure.

I will be an empathetic listener and a relentless advocate for your needs. Vote Rithika for a transparent, inclusive, and supportive postgraduate experience.