Saanjh

Programme of study

BA English

Tell us a bit about your background

Hi! I am a first-year student from Watford, Hertfordshire. I completed my A-Levels with the additional challenge of surviving a brain stroke the same year, and my treatment is ongoing. I'm also autistic. Thus, I'm proud to have made it to York!

My home area is really multicultural and lively, and it is not too far from London but I wanted to broaden my horizons and go somewhere completely different for uni. Since arriving here I have found the community to be very welcoming and inclusive!

Why did you want to get involved with the Student Expert Panel?

I have a strong sense of justice, and care a lot about support structures and how they can benefit people more widely. I particularly resonate with concerns surrounding accessibility and inclusivity for students who identify as disabled, queer, and/or as people of colour. It feels rewarding to be able to motivate change and I'm excited to platform the experiences of my community at York through collaborative projects with the Panel!

What are you involved with at York, and what are you interested in outside of your studies?

I am looking forward to trying new things, but so far I've participated in Debate Society, which I find really fun and intellectually stimulating. I've also attended Inklings which was more relaxed and I enjoyed it as a creative outlet.

I attend weekly Spanish lessons too and it feels great to immerse myself in language learning again, although I could use a bit more speaking practice!

Another position I hold is as an English Rep. I enjoy building a network within the English faculty and really commend the Widening Participation events they do - they are fun to attend!

In my own time I like playing video games, listening to music and reading. I love the library and try to spend as much time as I can there.