I am Arya Razmjoo, the Vice-President of WUSA (Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association) and the newly appointed Vice-President of Finance at OUSA. It’s an honour to step into this role and contribute to an organization that plays a vital part in enhancing the university experience for students across Ontario.
You might assume that my academic background is in engineering, given my roles in Waterloo’s student governance. However, I focused my studies on Legal and Communication Studies. This unique combination has provided me with a broad perspective and a diverse skill set that I believe will serve OUSA well. My journey with OUSA formally began at the 2024 General Assembly, where I saw firsthand the student-centric approach that defines this organization.
Being part of OUSA allows me to bring a unique perspective to the table, blending my background in legal and communication studies with a passion for advocating for undergraduate students. My experiences have equipped me with the skills and insights that contribute effectively to OUSA's mission and advocacy. I am particularly interested in addressing financial challenges, improving campus resources, and ensuring that student voices are heard.
One of the primary reasons I pursued a role with OUSA is my belief in the power of student advocacy. During my time at Waterloo, I’ve seen how effective student voices can be in shaping various university policies and practices. As Vice-President of Finance, I’m excited to apply my knowledge to help manage and allocate resources in ways that will benefit all students. Financial transparency and sustainability are crucial, and I am committed to ensuring that OUSA’s financial practices reflect these values.
Moreover, I am eager to collaborate with the talented individuals at OUSA. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do, and I firmly believe that by working together, we can tackle the challenges facing students today. Whether it's addressing the rising costs of education, advocating for mental health resources, or improving campus facilities, our collective efforts can lead to meaningful change.
One area that I am particularly passionate about is mental health. The demands of university life can be overwhelming, and it is essential that students have access to the support they need. At Waterloo, I have been involved in initiatives aimed at enhancing mental health resources, and I look forward to bringing this focus to OUSA. By prioritizing mental health, we can help create an environment where students thrive both academically and personally in their undergraduate career.
Another personal area of focus is fostering a sense of community on campus. University is not just about academics; it’s also about building relationships and creating a supportive network. During my tenure at WUSA, I have worked on several projects aimed at improving student engagement and creating a more inclusive campus culture. I am excited to continue this work with OUSA and help ensure all students feel welcome and valued.
As I embark on this journey with OUSA, I am filled with both optimism and enthusiasm for what lies ahead. I am grateful for the warm welcome I received from the OUSA community and for the opportunity to serve in this capacity. Together, I believe we can achieve great things for our fellow students.
In closing, I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who has supported me along the way. Your guidance and encouragement have been invaluable, and I am committed to giving my best in this role. Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible community. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for all students.
Warm regards, Arya Razmjoo