INTERVIEW: “I’d like to see a NUNSA that breeds active members and strong leaders.“ Scholarstica Aluele (Vice President, NUNSA UI)

Last week, the Nursing Students’ Pressmen Organisation (NSPO) interviewed the current Vice President of the Nigerian Universities Nursing Students’ Association, University of Ibadan Chapter (NUNSA UI).

In her comments, Miss Scholarstica Aluele who is also a 400-level student emphasized the necessity of adaptation, communication, and problem solving abilities as a leader, as well as the need for students in the department to be active and involved in the department’s development.

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Q: Can you please tell us about yourself?
A: I am Scholarstica Aluele, a 400-level Nursing student at the University of Ibadan. I am a Content Creator and a Mental Health enthusiast.

Q: That’s a very unique and interesting name. You know, the first time I heard it, I thought it was a nickname. Can you tell us which state you’re from?
A: Aww, thank you. I’m from Edo state.

Q: Alright, Scholar. If I were to walk into your classroom right now and ask students to describe you, what would they say?
A: Well, they’d say I’m active and adorable. I think so because like some of my classmates would say “Scholar is everywhere”- as I participate in NUNSAUI activities. And also activities within my class, I am the Head of the project’s team, a member of the Social team and also the Team Lead of the Quiz committee in my class. And for being adorable? I mean, that’s an obvious one.

Q: Amazing! Would you briefly describe your preferred leadership style?
A: I would describe my preferred leadership style as one that allows for teamwork and effective communication.

Q: How would you define teamwork in your own words?
A: I see teamwork as a collective responsibility whereby each individual has a role to play… and plays it effectively.

Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: I listen to music, dance, watch movies and volunteer at organizations. I don’t have a particular genre of music, I love any good music. For movies? I love thriller, horror and action movies.

Q: That’s interesting! What does the word “success” mean to you?
A: Albert Einstein once said It is better to be of value than to be a Success. I’d say that Success is making an impact and being valuable in our niche(s).

Q: In your own words, what would an effective and successful administration look like?
A: I’d love to see a NUNSA that breeds active members and great leaders.

Q: What would you rate the level of participation and involvement of NUNSAITES right now on a scale of 1 to 10?
A: I’d give a 6 out of 10. Although there haven’t been many activities this session, so far, it’s better than the previous session. I was quite pleased with the turnout for the congress and also seeing NUNSAITES coming out to cheer up their colleagues on the field during the football matches.

There’s so much room for Improvement. An effective measure I think NUNSAITES should employ is altering any negative view they have about NUNSAUI and cultivate a mindset towards being part of the change. NUNSAITES can be involved through various means, one of which is joining one or more committees as it deems fit.

Q: In your few months as Vice President, what are those things you have achieved with your team?
A: So far, I can confidently say that my team and I have been able to give a deserving orientation across each level with the help of the Academic and Mentorship Committee, formally welcome the freshers to the department through an orientation and welcome program and also try our best to resolve the bus issue.

Q: That’s interesting to hear! Now, I have to ask, what do you see as an immediate challenge to overcome in this position?
A: That would be making hard decisions, as it might mean making an unpopular choice that could upset someone but is best for the overall well-being of NUNSAITES.

Q: What are the most essential skills required when serving in a Vice President capacity, especially in a student environment like this one?
A: I believe an individual serving in a Vice President capacity needs a lot of essential skills, some of them being adaptability, communication and problem-solving skills.

Q: Can you tell me your vision for the future of NUNSA UI?
A: I envision a future where there is an established relationship between the Alumni body and NUNSA UI.

Q: Thank you so much for your time, Scholar. It was nice talking to you.
A: Thank you for the opportunity.

~ Anuoluwapo Alao