Leading With Heart: My Journey as Cranfield Student Association President by Summer Yan

When I first arrived at Cranfield, I had no idea that one year later I would be standing at the heart of our student community, serving as President of the Cranfield Student Association (CSA). Looking back now, this journey feels both unexpected and incredibly meaningful — a reminder that sometimes, the smallest moment can change your path completely.

The CSA: A lighthouse for students

To me, the CSA is like a lighthouse by the sea. Whenever students need direction, support, or simply a place to feel at home, the CSA is where they can turn.

We support students academically by listening to their experiences and representing them in meetings with course directors and the university. Socially, we are a hub for community: a place to eat, dance, relax, play, and feel connected. And personally, we strive to create a supportive environment where students feel heard, valued, and understood.

At its core, the CSA is driven by one mission: to listen, to support, and to act for every student at Cranfield.

How my leadership journey began

It truly feels like it all happened yesterday. One ordinary day while I was waiting for the bus, I noticed the CSA President poster beside me. Something about it caught my attention, and a simple thought came to mind: why not give it a try?

During the voting period, I decided to introduce myself to every student I encountered. At first, I was shy and nervous — stepping outside of my comfort zone felt intimidating. But step by step, conversation by conversation, I grew more confident. Students were incredibly warm and supportive, and through those interactions, I made many wonderful friends. That alone made the whole experience worth it.

It was my courage, my willingness to listen, and my belief in student voices that helped me earn this role — and it remains the reason I work so hard in it today.

Working with the University

The CSA works closely with the University to make sure the student experience is constantly improving.

These collaborations ensure that the voices of our diverse student body reach every level of decision-making:

• Student Experience Committee meetings covering wellbeing, accommodation, education, and more.
• Senate, the University’s highest academic body, ensuring student voices influence educational standards.
• Council, the governing body overseeing student experience, finance, and governance.

A day in the life

People often ask what a CSA President actually does. Every day is different, but each one is filled with purpose. but for me, a typical day might look like this:

• Checking the CSA inbox to hear from students
• Preparing for meetings with different university departments
• Chatting with team members in the CSA building to keep communication aligned
• Spending dedicated time in my office for students who want to speak with me directly
• Supporting or joining evening CSA events

Achievements and challenges

One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is our work on enhancing the University’s Safeguarding and Misconduct Policy, especially around anti-harassment and sexual misconduct. Strengthening this policy ensures a safer, more supportive environment for everyone.

Of course, there are challenges too, especially around transparency. Students sometimes misunderstand the roles of both the CSA and the University. As a bridge between them, our job is to communicate clearly and openly, helping everyone understand not just what we do, but why we do it.

A bigger world

Being CSA President has broadened my world. It has allowed me to connect with students from every school, every course, and every continent. I’ve grown personally and professionally through collaboration, leadership, and exposure to new perspectives.

Cranfield is truly an international family, and serving this community has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Looking ahead

As the interim President, my goal is not to make big noise, but to hold the baton firmly, continue the work of supporting students, and strengthen the CSA’s presence across campus.

When students look back at their time here, I don’t need them to remember me personally. But I do hope they remember the CSA as a place where they felt supported, connected, and uplifted. That will be enough to make me deeply satisfied.

A message to students

When I first arrived at Cranfield, I quickly discovered how friendly, diverse, and welcoming it is. If I could give new students one piece of advice, it would be this: try everything, get involved, meet people, and enjoy every moment. There is so much more to your Cranfield journey than the classroom alone.