Candidate for the position of Vice President (Education)

Image for Samuel Oluwadare (Sam)

Samuel Oluwadare (Sam)

Elections Personal Statement
Instituting the TEDxDerbyUni Initiative – An intellectual gathering designed to inspire and
challenge you to become the best version of yourself. Picture this: you, in B302 with big names
like... well, go wild with your guesses!
♦ Promoting Academic Success for All – Actively listening to your concerns, championing
solutions, and ensuring that every student feels supported on their academic journey.
♦ Increasing Career Advancement Opportunities – Pushing for more access to top conferences,
internships, and networking events because your future shouldn’t wait!
As the current Postgraduate Taught Officer, I’ve been part of multiple focus groups, making decisions
that directly impact students' academic success, welfare, and security. I’ve sat at tables where real
change happens, ensuring that student voices are heard. Through this role, I’ve gained firsthand insight
into the academic challenges students face and the best ways to address them.
Oh, and here’s a little inside scoop—I've proposed the TEDxDerbyUni initiative, and it's currently
undergoing ratification. (Promise to keep this a secret! Kath, the VC, must not know I told you!)
Beyond the thrilling yet rigorous life of an IT student, I’ve actively engaged in student-focused
initiatives, ensuring our university community thrives.
Last year, I was one of only two student representatives in a closed focus group meeting for
Develop@Derby, where we restructured the initiative to be more engaging and beneficial for students’
personal growth and career readiness.
I’ve also been part of the uni choir, bringing music to life during at rehearsals at The Multi Faith Centre
and doing a Bible reading at the last Carol Service at Kedleston—adding that extra touch of colour
and warmth to the event.
And for a little twist, I’ve also worked part-time with the cleaning team at Kedleston—so yeah, I know
all the secret rooms! (Shhh! Don’t tell Debby and Sue – my former team leader and supervisor
respectively – I told you.)
These engagements have not only connected me with key personalities within the university but have
also fueled my passion for running for VP Education.
I’m not new here! I’ve been right there—behind the scenes—sitting on panels, attending meetings,
and advocating for students' academic and social well-being.
As Postgraduate Taught Officer, I’ve seen the struggles students face—both home and international.
From academic hurdles to adjusting to a new environment, I’ve always been at decision tables
contributing to proffering solutions—whether through the Develop@Derby initiative, which provides
holistic support for student development, or other impactful projects aimed at enhancing student
experiences.
Now, I believe stepping into the role of VP Education is the next step—the right step—to do even more,
and to do it more gracefully.
My goal? To create an academic environment that inspires you to grow, connects you with industry
experts, and helps you succeed.