Let's say hello to...
Bridging Campuses from Orkney to the Borders.
Hi, I’m Meng, a postgraduate researcher based at Heriot-Watt’s Orkney Campus and a member of the Student Union Parliament. My role is all about representing students and making sure their voices are heard, whether that’s helping with issues around cost of living, supporting future readiness, or ensuring our campuses have the activities and resources students need. I want to help students feel connected, supported, and empowered to make a difference in their own student experience.
I’m originally from China and have been the UK since 2018, drawn here first for my PhD in the sustainable management of UK marine resources. Before that, I completed a first-class BSc in Computer Science with AI from the University of Nottingham and an MSc in Data Science for Cultural Heritage from UCL. My background in technology and research has always been linked to problem-solving, which naturally led me to take an active role in student representation. I’ve also been involved with student unions since my undergraduate years and understand how much they can shape university life.
In my day-to-day, I work alongside student representatives and the Union team to push for meaningful changes. I take pride in the collaborative effort that goes into Parliament, it’s one of the spaces where we tackle real challenges and solutions, from cost-of-living support to building stronger campus communities.
I’m deeply committed to making sure all Heriot-Watt campuses feel represented and included. I want to bring more activities, events, and opportunities to both the Orkney and Scottish Borders campuses, creating spaces where students can thrive and have access to the same opportunities.
The Union value that resonates most with me is being student-focused: it’s all about calibrating efforts across departments so that student needs are prioritised. I’ve seen firsthand how unity and collective action can create change, and being part of that process is hugely rewarding.
Outside of work, I dedicate much of my time to research, volunteering, and professional development. I’m a member of multiple professional and civic organisations, including AWS Community Builders, the British Computer Society, and various guilds and societies across the UK. I’m just really passionate about applying my skills to serve both the student community and broader society.
A quirky fact about me? I manage to balance a deeply busy academic and professional life while still finding moments to sleep when I can!