News
My University journey: Reflections and highlights
From Class Representative to community volunteer, Rakul’s journey at the University of Dundee showcases how student life can be both impactful and inspiring
Published on 9 June 2025

As a Class Representative, I’ve loved being the voice for my peers. One of the proudest moments in my university journey was being shortlisted among the top three Class Reps for the prestigious University Presidential Award 2025.
My passion for animals led me to volunteer as a Student Ambassador for the Scottish SPCA, championing animal welfare and community engagement. Upon my nomination, the Scottish SPCA was selected as the winner of the Student Volunteering Organisation of the Year Award in 2025 — a moment that made me incredibly proud, as animals have always been close to my heart, and giving them a voice has been a personal priority.

I also had the honour of interacting with Councillors, Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs), and Dundee City Council officials at the Student Services Open Day as a Representative, sharing student stories and lived experiences. As a finalist in the University of Dundee Marketing Society (UDMS) competition, I developed a comprehensive marketing plan for a holiday let property in Italy — an experience that honed my strategic thinking and creativity. Participating in the Enterprise Challenge with the Centre for Entrepreneurship allowed me to take part in the Final Business Pitch Competition, showcasing innovative ideas and demonstrating entrepreneurial skills.

Additionally, I was invited as a Guest Speaker for the podcast “Dundee and Your Career – Employability & Experience,” discussing how the University equips students for career success. My role as a Social Media Representative for Prospects.ac.uk and the University of Dundee School of Business allowed me to share the vibrant student experience with prospective students. Volunteering as a Retail Volunteer at the British Red Cross in Dundee further strengthened my commitment to community service.

These experiences have empowered me with invaluable life skills — communication, leadership, teamwork, and unwavering confidence. They’ve become a springboard for my academic and career goals, providing me with practical insights, impactful networks, and continuous personal growth. To any student hesitant about getting involved, my message is this: don’t hesitate for a second! We are the architects of our own journey — step up, own your path, and let nothing hold you back. Opportunities abound for those willing to seize them, and with each new challenge, I feel more energized and fulfilled. This university life is not just an experience — it’s a launchpad for the future, and I’m proud to embrace it with everything I have.