Candidate Profile

Anika Manelkar

(She/Her)

I’m Anika Manelkar, a university student majoring in political science at the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and I am deeply passionate about enhancing the mental well-being of our student community. Before I came to the University of Illinois, I co-hosted and co-created a podcast addressing crucial mental health topics and actively advocated for the reinstatement of Social Emotional Learning Days. These experiences and opportunities have fueled my passion for mental health advocacy, instilling in me a profound understanding of the challenges my peers and I face daily. Recognizing the ongoing mental health crisis on our campuses, and other college campuses nationwide, I am running for Student Council Student Representative to work on fostering a more supportive academic and social environment. First, I advocate for the introduction of mental health days, allowing students the space to prioritize their well-being without fear of any academic repercussions. Due to the lower frequency of classes in college compared to a high school education, the idea of a mental health day becomes less academically daunting and won’t allow a student to fall far behind in coursework. Second, I propose the establishment of a website of accessible online resources for meditation, relaxation, and on-demand counseling to empower students to proactively engage in self-care. This approach is more than just acknowledging the issues eating at the student body. It’s about taking tangible steps toward creating a healthier and more productive student body. It’s about understanding that the mental well-being of our peers contributes to the success of the entire student body and university community. As your representative, I will actively seek your input, addressing concerns regarding the student body’s mental health, and ensuring that my initiatives align with your needs. This isn’t merely a campaign; it’s a commitment I’m willing to share with all of my peers, and with all of you. Vote for me to be one of Illinois Student Council’s student representatives and I will push forth an enhanced plan to supply you with the necessary resources to maintain a healthy body and mind during your time here on campus.