Shine Aung

Candidate for Board of Directors, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics

Candidate Slogan

Together for a stronger CNSM.

 

Candidate Biography
I am a third-year Biological Science major with a strong interest in medicine/research, leadership, and student involvement within the Natural Sciences and Mathematics community. Throughout my time on campus, I have participated in multiple on-campus research programs, which have helped me build hands-on experience, strengthen my problem-solving skills, and better understand how research connects to what we learn in the classroom.

 

In addition to research, I am actively involved in campus organizations, where I collaborate with other students, take part in events, and contribute to a supportive campus environment. Being involved has shown me how important student voices are in shaping academic and social opportunities within our college.

 

I am running for this board position because I want to represent students in the Natural Science and Mathematics section, help improve communication between students and faculty, and support opportunities that encourage academic growth, research involvement, and community building. I am motivated, dependable, and committed to advocating for students and helping make our section a more connected and supportive space.

 

Candidate Statement/Platform

If elected, my main goal is to truly listen to students and turn their concerns into action. At the end of the day, I am not separate from the student body, I am one of you. I sit in the same lectures, work through the same labs, and experience the same challenges. Because of that, I care deeply about seeing our campus and the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics continue to improve in ways that actually matter to students. I plan to create regular opportunities for students to share their thoughts, such as surveys, open forums, and virtual office hours, and I will bring those voices directly to faculty and college leadership. My goal is to ensure that students feel heard and that their concerns lead to meaningful changes, whether that’s improving course resources, lab accessibility, or campus support systems.

 

I also want to focus on building stronger connections among students across majors within the college. CNSM students often spend a lot of time in labs and classes, which can make it hard to connect outside of coursework. I hope to organize mixers, study groups, and collaborative events with student organizations to bring students together, foster mentorship, and encourage collaboration between different majors. I also want to implement a peer mentorship program, pairing underclassmen with upper-division students to provide guidance on coursework, research opportunities, and navigating college life. Strengthening these connections will help students feel more supported and create a stronger, more inclusive community.

 

Another key goal is career and professional development. I want to organize panels, workshops, and networking events that connect students with alumni, faculty, and professionals in fields like research, healthcare, education, and industry. More than just networking, these events would provide practical advice on graduate school, career paths, and skill-building opportunities such as resume workshops or mock interviews. I also plan to compile resources on internships, scholarships, and job opportunities so students can easily access them. My goal is to make these opportunities inclusive and accessible to all students, especially underclassmen and those unsure about their next steps, so everyone can gain guidance and confidence in planning their future.

 

Overall, I hope to contribute ideas, energy, and dedication to help make CNSM a place where students feel informed, connected, and confident in their academic and professional journeys. By actively listening, advocating for student needs, and creating programs that support research, community, and career development, I hope to help shape a college environment that reflects what students truly need to succeed.