Ayra Hussain

What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?

Growing up in multiple countries and moving around numerous states, I think I fit well into the UMBC community as it is filled with students from both all over the country and all over the world. I have been able to develop upon my collaboration skills through working with other people in a lab on campus, in addition to service PRACs and various on-campus organizations I am a part of. I think collaboration is crucial in being able to work well with others to promote positive change, in addition to increasing productivity and making value of the time we have.

How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA? What strategies do you use to address conflict?

I think what is equally as beneficial as sharing one's own ideas is to be able to be a good listener to the ideas of others. Therefore, when addressing conflicts I think it is important to take into account both perspectives, and put yourself in someone else's shoes to understand where they are coming from. Always take the stance that the other person means no harm and hear them out before making any assumptions about what their intentions are.

What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?

The student body would benefit from a leadership structure that promotes learning skills to promote student empowerment (similar to the scenario where instead of giving a man a fish so he is fed for the day, teaching him how to fish so he will never go hungry); by this, I mean students should be aware that they have a voice on campus, and their initiatives should be heard. Every student should be able to voice their opinions and ideas, and should have access to resources or people who can facilitate these. UMBC contains such a diverse body of students, and so it is only fitting for it to also be a community that is able to cater to the needs of each individual.

How do you plan to facilitate communications with your constituents?

The three most important aspects of communicating with others are firstly, to be transparent. I think this is important because it helps you build better relationships with others and be a more trustworthy person. Secondly, to be an advocate; to consider each persons ideas equally and advocate for them equally. Finally, listening to not only the ideas, but the concerns of others as I think talking about them plays an important role in alleviating any worries or concerns.