Graduate Students' Association

Election Personal Statement

Dear GSA Executive Team, 

As a first-year master's student in the Plant Sciences Department at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, I, Zinat Akbarzadeh, am eager to apply for the position of VP Finance and Operator within our esteemed Graduate Students' Association (GSA). My academic journey is deeply rooted in understanding the intricacies of plant sciences, a field that requires not only meticulous research but also strategic resource management and financial planning to bring innovative projects to fruition. 

Previously, I worked as a Sales Associate, a role that significantly honed my financial acumen. This position entrusted me with key responsibilities that directly impacted the financial health of the company. My engagement with budgeting, financial reporting, and strategic planning was not just about numbers; it was about ensuring sustainable growth and operational efficiency. These experiences have equipped me with a robust financial toolkit and an analytical mindset, essential for the VP Finance and Operator role at the GSA. 

I am committed to applying these skills to enhance our GSA's financial operations, ensuring transparency, accountability, and strategic use of resources to support our student community. My goal is to foster an environment where financial stability is leveraged to advance our academic, research, and community initiatives, aligning with the GSA's mission to enrich the graduate student experience at the University of Saskatchewan. 

Joining the GSA executive team represents a unique opportunity to blend my financial expertise with my passion for serving our academic community. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to our collective success and am dedicated to representing the interests and ambitions of my fellow graduate students.