Elections

Interested in an Executive or Councillor position?

Executive and Councillors Election opens every March, concurrently with the Students’ Union Council and General Faculties Council elections. Executive and Councillors By-Election opens every October.

Process: Interested members should follow instructions in this application package

Deadlines: Application packages can be submitted electronically to elections@isss.ca by March 9th at 6 PM.

Elections: The official 2026 ISSS Election voting dates are March 18–19, 2026

2026/27 Application Package

Elections Timeline

Meet the Election candidates

Harika Singh

Hey everyone, my name is Harika Singh and I’m thrilled to be running for President of ISSS for the next academic year! Having served as Vice President Programming this past year and councillor the year before, I have delivered on my promises to further community engagement within the science community and other faculties through events and advocacy.

As president, my aim would be to:

Increase connection between councillors and students to better represent their needs
Streamlining free printing services
Offering more development opportunities for the team by developing an “intro to science governance” course and adapting the Options Navigation System.

With the approval of the new SCI7 Fee, we are also in line to develop some exciting new projects like the travel and accommodation fund and career fair to name a few. I promise to ensure your increased fee is put to fair use, and advocate for the science student body on an inter-faculty level to expand our reach and keep your university life progressive, with equal parts functional, developmental and personally enhanced.

Jacob Sarigumba

I am writing to express my interest in being the VP of Administration and Finance at ISSS. As a passionate science student and dedicated community member, I organized study groups, led event planning and managed finances for my high school student council, and participated in community initiatives such as Safewalk to give back to the community. If elected, I will use my organizational skills and dedication to ensure ISSS continuously works for the betterment of the science community. This involves larger and higher quality events to help students network and to have fun and memorable experiences by mobilizing the club’s recently increased budget. Secondly, I want to increase the awareness of ISSS by overhauling the outreach department and allocating more resources to ensure more engagement and connection between ISSS and the community. Lastly, It is my goal to keep the club and its members responsible to ensure reliability and clear expectations by utilizing more community feedback, promoting future growth. I would be proud to work for ISSS, and further devote myself to the science community.

Ayesha Khan

Hi everyone! I’m Ayesha Khan, a third-year Psychology major, and I’m excited to run for re-election as Vice President of Administration and Finance.

Over the past year in this role, I’ve managed budgets, tracked expenses, and supported the financial side of ISSS events. This experience has highlighted the importance of clear financial organization and transparency to ensure student fees are used responsibly. I’ve also grown my skills in record-keeping, communicating financial information, and streamlining processes to make funding easier to access.

If re-elected, I plan to build on this experience to further improve our financial systems, strengthen transparency regarding student fees, and ensure funding processes remain efficient for clubs and student initiatives. I’m eager to continue improving this role and contributing to a well-organized ISSS that meaningfully supports science students.

Thank you for your support!

Naivedhya Rai

Hi! My name is Naivedhya Rai. I'm an Honors Physiology student running to be your Vice President Academic for the Interdepartmental Science Students Society.

I currently serve as a Co-Director of Events and a First Year Councilor with the ISSS and sit on the General Faculties Council as an Undergraduate Science Councilor. Through these roles, I’ve seen both the challenges science students face, as well as overarching issues within university systems, such as rising use of additional paid programs to complete course work for classes students have already paid to take.

As your VPA, I will continue work on the SciSphere initiative, particularly focusing on the inclusion of course syllabi to ensure students are able to establish clear and accurate expectations prior to enrolling in classes. I will work with the UASU to advocate for the use of Canvas rather than external paid programs.

Above all, I will ensure that your concerns are heard and addressed while working to enhance the services provided by the ISSS.

Nabeeha Irfan

Hi everyone, I’m Nabeeha, and I’m excited to run as your next VPA!

I’ve been involved with ISSS for the past few years as Professional Development Director and Handbooks Director, organizing events and academic resources for students. I also have experience leading educational initiatives beyond ISSS. Having seen these programs behind the scenes, I’m excited to strengthen opportunities for science students and ensure student fees are used effectively.

1. Expanding Research and Professional Development Opportunities

Host research workshops on approaching professors, building research CVs, and applying to programs.
Work on a science-focused career fair connecting students with research institutes, graduate programs, and science industries.
Create a Science Research Directory listing labs open to undergraduate researchers.

2. Strengthening Academic and Peer Support Networks

Expand Mini Study Groups through structured check-ins and promotion across departments.
Continue the Science NoteBank as a hub for shared notes and study resources.

3. Enhancing Student Engagement

Organize department-focused panels across the Faculty of Science.
Host science skills workshops on scientific writing, research posters, coding, and grad school preparation.
Gather student feedback

Veronica Muyres

As a student interested in the sciences, I hope to make a difference within the UofA science community. I believe in helping students find opportunities that fit within their interests as well as strengthening the relationships within the faculty of science. My platform, if elected, is to extend student knowledge on career paths post graduation and to provide better knowledge of research opportunities. As a university student, I have noticed that many science students struggle to determine what career path they want to take, and many people are unaware of the different opportunities that science offers beyond medicine and research. To address this issue, I plan to host events with professionals in different fields to expand the knowledge of students on opportunities. I have also noticed that many students find research daunting. To address this issue, I plan to provide resources that help students understand the field, as well as events to allow students to learn about the variety of opportunities.

Yavnika Gulia

“Science is tough — support shouldn’t be.”

Hi everyone! My name is Yavnika Gulia, and I am excited to run for Vice President Academic. As a science student, I understand both the challenges and opportunities that come with our programs. Between heavy course loads and research applications, we deserve a system that works for us.

Through my experiences as a volunteer tutor with Help Young Minds, an ISSS volunteer, and a member of the Neuroscience Subcommittee and Science Mentor Program, I’ve seen firsthand where our academic supports succeed and where students still fall through the cracks.

If elected, I will focus on:

Access to Research Opportunities: Creating streamlined resources to help students find and secure lab placements and career opportunities.
Transparent Advocacy: Strengthening the bridge between students, the Faculty of Science, and the SU to ensure our academic voices are heard.
Visible Support: Enhancing the reach of mentorship programs so no student feels overwhelmed alone.

Let’s build a science community where every student has the tools to succeed!

Maryam Tariq

Hi everyone! My name is Maryam Tariq, and I’m a second-year Physiology student running for re-election as your Vice President Services for ISSS. Over the past year, I have worked to make resources more accessible for students. I launched the ISSS Professional Clothing Bank, allowing students to borrow professional attire for interviews, networking events, and mixers. My directors and I also increased advertising for the ISSS Used Book Sale to help students access more affordable textbooks. In addition, we designed and distributed handbooks to provide tips and resources that help students plan their academic year. I also advocated for and helped maintain a multi-faith space in CCIS to support students who need a space for prayer and reflection.

If re-elected, my platform will focus on:

Expanding the clothing bank through increased donations and pop-up events
Increasing access to academic essentials by advertising borrowing options for lab coats and calculators
Advocating for locker maintenance

Thank you for your support!

Kayden Cameron

As a first-year biological sciences student, I am passionate about strengthening the science community and creating a stronger sense of belonging. I also aim to extend the outreach of ISSS and make its non-academic services more welcoming — whether you are looking for a break, to socialize, or to try something new entirely. Great value can be found in fostering a sense of community outside of academics, and with my comprehensive background in research, organization, and planning, I believe I can help us take this step forward. My first initiative is to start a textbook or lab kit rental programs to make resources more affordable and more accessible. In addition, I also desire to implement stress-relief programs like therapy dogs, yoga sessions, or meditation workshops to help promote mental wellbeing. Finally, I aim to improve mixers and social events to create a more enticing social experience. With these plans in mind, I hope to reinforce the reputation of ISSS as a resource that aims to best promote student life.

Ronan Birkenhead

As a student dedicated to the path of science with a unique interest in research, I have a strong passion for increasing community outreach and collaboration to further strengthen relationships within the science community. Additionally, having experience working on large projects, such as my Extended Essay in the International Baccalaureate program, as well as past projects in both ISSS and MSSA; I am uniquely positioned to enhance the impact of the science community on campus.

My platform, if elected, is built on three points. First, I aim to raise awareness and improve theoutreach of ISSS on campus, as I have noticed that many students, especially first years, are unaware of important opportunities provided to them by ISSS. Second, I plan to enhance communication campus-wide and promote greater community engagement, believing that uniting people through both academic and non-academic events is key to making a meaningful impact. Finally, I hope to hold my fellow peers accountable and strive for strong leadership to foster a supportive and respectful community within ISSS.

Alishba Khan

Hi! I’m Alishba Khan, and I’m running to help make opportunities in science more visible, accessible, and connected for students. When students are aware of the resources, initiatives, and experiences available to them, they can grow both academically and professionally.

Through my experience as Director of Events for the Interdepartmental Science Students’ Society, Public Relations Executive for Science FUNdamentals, and Junior Mentor with

SciMentors, I have developed the communication and organizational skills necessary to effectively promote initiatives, coordinate opportunities, and connect students across the science community.

My platform focuses on three key goals:

S – Strengthen COSSA connections by improving and promoting a centralized volunteer and opportunity database.
C – Communicate opportunities through an expanded ISSS newsletter highlighting COSSA initiatives and student involvement.
I – Invest in career development through professional headshot days and accessible resume and CV resource templates

I’m passionate about helping students discover opportunities, explore new paths, and feel more connected within the science community.

I hope to earn your vote so we can continue strengthening our science community together.

Razan Ahmed

Hey guys!

My name is Razan Ahmed, I'm a second year student majoring in Physiology and minoring in Computer science and I’m running to be your VP programming!!

Through my initiatives with the Science mentorship program, MSA, Week of welcome, ESA, HYM tutoring, and more, I’ve worked on planning everything from city-wide soccer tournaments to embroidery workshops to video game tournaments.

With the experiences I've gained, I can guarantee you that your vote will not go wasted.

My goal for us is simple, as VP programming I'll work to plan events that give science students a BREAK from science.

As important as our research nights and “emailing professors” workshops are, everybody needs a change of pace.

I'll take feedback from all of you guys and design events that YOU want to see, to create a space that welcomes new students to the faculty of science, gives existing students an escape from their classes, and makes ISSS the most recognizable club on campus.

Rheese Andersen

As a student achieving my childhood goal of pursuing a career in STEM, I am determined to help others passionate about science through community and peer involvement, connections, and fun activities to balance the stressful life of science majors. My strong background in community involvement and my experience in planning and coordinating events as president of both my high school's Student Council and Grad committee provide me with the tools necessary to enhance science students' university experience.

If elected, my platform focuses on improving student awareness and involvement. Through conversations with my peers, I have found that there is a lack of engagement with the student body. My plan to fix this problem is to reconstruct platforms such as the ISSS instagram, highlighting current events so more students can enjoy them. Another focus will be on connecting to the science community and asking the students what events they want to see in the future. Ultimately, I hope to connect to my fellow science students bringing both fun, support, and respect for STEM majors campus wide.

Braden Ng

I am running for ISSS 2nd Year Councillor because I want to be a reliable and honest voice for second year science students to improve their academic and campus experience. Our faculty deserves a representative who will stand up for them and foster consistent support through pushing for strong community outreach. My goal is to bridge the gap between student challenges and faculty resources, ensuring that science students are aware of all the opportunities and tools they have at their disposal to maximize their full potential. My platform is based on three main points, increasing research awareness, building confidence applying to professional programs, and community building. For research awareness, I want to push for more events and information packages that help explain the steps of how to get into research and the opportunities. Next I want to hold workshops for those applying to Medical, Dental, or Pharmacy School and how one can build their application and check requirements. Finally, I want to make the events run by ISSS more known and help connect the community.

Olivia Lee

Hi, I’m currently a first-year student majoring in Biological Sciences, and I’m running to be your next second year councillor! I have always been passionate about ensuring that student voices are heard and represented. In high school, I served as a Student Advisory Voice for Youth representative for my school division, where I collaborated with students across the district to analyze school data, present student-led initiatives, and share feedback with administrators to improve student experiences. Through this role, I developed strong leadership, communication, and advocacy skills that I’m excited to bring to this organization.

My platform is as follows: First, I aim to strengthen community outreach and awareness of ISSS by reforming our marketing efforts, as many early-year science students are unfamiliar with the events and resources available to them. Second, I want to inform science students about the many career and research paths available beyond the traditional expectations many feel limited to. Lastly, I hope to advocate for early-year students by helping create a welcoming and supportive science community. Thank you for your consideration!

Ava Schwartz

I am passionate about building connections within the Science community. In my first year, I lived on the Science Cohort floor and decided to return in my second year as a Science Floor Coordinator with the LHSA. Being surrounded by science students has given me valuable insight into how to connect, involve, and intrigue science students with events that interest them most. If elected, my platform will focus on three key priorities. First, I want to increase awareness of ISSS events. Many students are unaware of the opportunities ISSS offers, so I would prioritize stronger promotion through additional posters and outreach in strategic locations such as Lister Residence and Peter Lougheed Hall to engage new students. Second, Iwould expand career-focused events for science students. Inviting graduates and professionals to speak about their career paths would help students explore the many opportunities available within the sciences. Finally, I aim to strengthen connections within the Faculty of Science by organizing inclusive, engaging events that encourage students to meet one another and build a sense of community.

Sean Weidlich

My name is Sean Weidlich, and I am in my second year of biochemistry in the honours program. I have a great passion for academics, and I wish to provide and participate more in the Scientific and Academic community. I am applying for the 3rd year council position.

Biochemistry has been a very major focus throughout my life. I am a competitive powerlifter and biochemistry relates to it. My interest in biochemistry comes from the fundamentals of muscle protein synthesis, genetics and metabolism involved in athletics. Soon I found myself falling down multiple rabbit holes regarding biochemical pathways and intracellular signaling. I became more interested in not only the biochemical world but also watching other people succeed in the academic one. I have applied for an ISSS mentorship position, and I have also hosted mini study groups this past year.

As Councilor I will advocate for more student access to academic resources, mentorship programs and study sessions with other faculty members. I will also personally hold research mixers to prepare students for upcoming research applications.

Shahd Metwally

Hi everyone! My name is Shahd, and I’m a second-year Neuroscience Honours student who loves being part of the science community at the University of Alberta. Whether I’m explaining a neuroscience concept, helping students build confidence through my work at Kumon, or volunteering at the Stollery Hospital, I enjoy supporting others and bringing people together. I’m approachable, motivated, and always excited to connect with fellow science students.

University can be challenging, but it should also be a place where students feel supported, included, and able to explore opportunities beyond the classroom. As your 3rd Year Councillor, I want to help ensure science students feel heard and have access to the resources that support their success. We all know the feeling of being on campus for hours and wanting a quick snack during a long study session without constantly spending money. I want to advocate for initiatives that make small supports like this more accessible for students.

My priorities include:

Making undergraduate research opportunities easier to discover across departments
Advocating for free snack initiatives during busy study periods
Promoting peer mentorship and stronger connections within the science community

Zeynep Erisek

Hello! My name is Zeynep Erisek, and I am currently a second-year Honours Neuroscience student. I am excited to run as a third-year councillor for the ISSS council. Being a science student at the University of Alberta comes with many responsibilities and challenges. Many students struggle to balance their academic workload, personal lives, and aspirations. As a third-year councillor, I want to strengthen the support system and create a diverse and inclusive environment where science students can succeed both academically and professionally. This will be achieved by:

Promoting more science workshops and events that allow students to network and explore different science disciplines. This will allow them to see a wider range of opportunities beyond their discipline of interest.
Ensuring greater reliability and transparency between ISSS and students by enhancing a feedback system for students to voice and submit their concerns
Advocating for resource sustainability by promoting the use of second-hand lab coats and other equipment in need.

I believe my hard work will enable me to implement my ideas and strengthen our community.

Eshal Adnan

Hi, I’m Eshal Adnan, and I’m excited to run for the Third-Year Councillor position on the ISSS Council. I’m committed to ensuring your voices are heard, addressing your concerns, and making your experience as science students both empowering and fulfilling.

As a current second-year councillor and Finance Committee member, I’ve supported transparent financial decisions and prioritized student needs. Through this role, I’ve gained valuable insight into the council’s operations and how we can make impactful decisions for the science community. If elected, I’ll continue advocating for accountability and representing the diverse needs of our students.

I will work to bridge the gap between students and the ISSS by fostering clearer communication and advocating for inclusive events that reflect the interests of all science students. My goal is to ensure transparency, prioritize student needs, and hold the Executive accountable to better serve our community.

As your fellow science student, I understand our challenges and am committed to building a stronger, more connected community. Let’s elevate student voices and drive change together.

Vote Eshal Adnan for Councillor!

Jaffer Yousofi

As a third-year Honours student entering my fourth year, I understand how important access to research opportunities, mentorship, and clear communication is for science students. I want to help ensure every student has the information, resources, and support they need to succeed academically and professionally.

I previously served as a Student Councillor, where I worked to hold representatives accountable and ensure that student concerns were properly addressed. That experience taught me how to advocate effectively and navigate faculty governance to push for meaningful action.

Outside of school, I work as a Public Relations Strategist for a non-profit that promotes opportunities for students in technology and industry, helping connect students with valuable career pathways. I also volunteer with Canadian Blood Services, where I regularly communicate with donors and help address their questions and concerns.

Sumaiyah Zeenat

I’m Sumaiyah Zeenat, a neuroscience major with a minor in psychology and I'm running for international student councillor. As an international student, I have firsthand experienced the challenges involved in moving to a new country, navigating university life and managing the transition from high school to university.

My campaign focuses on three priorities:

First, I want to improve awareness of the academic, wellness and support resources already available on campus since many international students are not fully aware of the services they could access. Second, Second, I want to advocate for stronger mental health support, especially during the transition to university, when students may feel isolated, overwhelmed, or far from their usual support systems. Third, I will utilize my position as councillor to ensure the ISSS membership fees are used transparently and meaningfully to give back to students via opportunities such as lab mixers, tours, professional panels and career events.

My goal is to help international students feel informed, supported, and represented.

ELECTORAL RECORDS AND RESULTS

2025 Election Results

President: Parinika Pal & Christene Saji with 467 first place votes

VPAF: Ayesha Khan with 433 first place votes

VPA: Susan Huseynova with 294 first place votes

VPC: Jack Bates with 325 first place votes (in the third round)

VPS: Maryam Tariq with 429 first place votes

VPP: Harika Singh with 406 first place votes

2nd Year Councillors: Danica Wories & Eshal Adnan with 78 and 72 first place votes

3rd Year Councillor: Joy Cao with 95 first place votes

4th Year Councillors: Karina Banerji & Toshan Woo with 98 and 95 first place votes