The DIVERSE Student Council (SC) is the highest representative body of the student community within the DIVERSE Alliance, representing more than 150,000 students across 12 partner institutions. It ensures that student perspectives are actively included in the governance, activities, and development of the Alliance.
The Council acts as a bridge between the student community and the Executive Board, strengthening the democratic participation of students in the construction of the European Universities Alliance.
Its main responsibilities include:
Student representatives also benefit from their participation through leadership development, international networking opportunities, and the acquisition of skills in advocacy, intercultural dialogue, and democratic governance. At the end of their term, members receive a certificate of commitment recognising their contribution to the Alliance.
Decisions within the Council are generally taken by consensus, with a 51% majority required for formal votes. The Council also conducts an annual self-assessment, the results of which feed into its Annual Report and recommendations to the Executive Board.
The Student Council is composed of 24 members, with two student representatives from each of the 12 partner institutions of the Alliance.
The Council elects a President and Vice-President from among its members to coordinate activities and represent the Council within the Alliance governance structures.
Membership aims to reflect the diversity of the student community, including differences in gender, academic background and study cycle (Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral levels).
|
Nika Walla Game development Algebra Bernays University |
Nika is a student representative, ambassador and mentor at Algebra Bernays University, and an active member of the student body. Her current role focuses on leading student coordinators who act as contact points for students from their branches, reporting academic, administrative, or institutional issues. She works closely with students to identify irregularities and challenges during their studies and supports them in finding appropriate solutions in cooperation with university structures. She also works closely with her fellow representatives on organizing student activities and events, to help improve the experience of studying at the AB University for all students. In addition, as a mentor for first-year students from her course, Nika's main goal is to help them smoothly transition into university life by offering guidance, support, and academic orientation during their first year. Most of her efforts within the student body are dedicated to ensuring that all students make the most of their time at the university, feel genuinely included, and ensuring that students look back on their university years as some of the most meaningful of their lives. Nika has experience representing students in formal public settings, including delivering a speech at the Croatian parliament. |
|
Nina Koczi Communication Management Algebra Bernays University |
I am a second-year student of Communication Management at Algebra Bernays University. Throughout my life, I have been closely connected with different cultures, as my family is spread across several European countries. This has given me early exposure to intercultural communication and strengthened my openness, adaptability, and interest in international cooperation. I have a strong passion for travelling, exploring new cultures, and understanding different perspectives, which aligns closely with my academic focus on communication and management. I am an active member of the Student Council at my home institution, where I participate in representing students, contributing to student initiatives, and supporting communication between students and faculty. In addition to my academic activities, I am interested in media, digital communication, and content creation, and I enjoy working on projects that combine creativity with strategic thinking. I consider myself proactive, communicative, and motivated to learn from diverse environments. I am particularly interested in opportunities that encourage collaboration, cultural exchange, and personal development within an international context. |
|
Irmak Çağlayan Software Engineering İstanbul Beykent University |
My name is Irmak Çağlayan, and I am a Software Engineering student at Istanbul Beykent University, as well as a second-year Management Information Systems student at Istanbul University. I am actively involved in the student community and currently serve in a leadership role within the Software Engineering Student Club, where I contribute to organizing academic and career-oriented events. Alongside my studies, I engage in research and technology-focused projects. I am a recipient of the TÜBİTAK 2209-A Undergraduate Research Support Program and have participated in TEKNOFEST three times, gaining hands-on experience in developing technology-driven projects within multidisciplinary teams. I am also involved in early-stage technology entrepreneurship through DNTR, an education technology platform, and SIJECT, an assistive technology project for visually impaired individuals. My academic interests include software development, digital product design, and educational technologies, with a focus on creating practical, real-world impact. |
|
Isil Duzgun Computer Engineering Istanbul Beykent University |
I am currently serving as the Chair of the IEEE Student Branch at my institution, having been an active member since my freshman year. My leadership journey also includes a former role as the General Secretary of the Computer Engineering Society. Beyond student organizations, I gained professional administrative experience as a Student Assistant at the Dean of Students Office during my second year, which provided me with insights into institutional operations. Currently, I am actively engaged in technical research and development. I am part of a team that has applied for the TÜBİTAK 2209 program to develop a hardware device, with results expected in May. Furthermore, as part of my Software Engineering coursework, I co-developed a mobile application focused on security and anti-violence, demonstrating my commitment to using technology for social impact. |
|
Philipp Raphael Denecke Business Administration University of Applied Science Rosenheim |
I'm studying Business Administration in the 7th Semester. Since roughly one year I'm a member of the Student Parliament at University of Applied Science and also Faculty Council for Business Administration. As a member of the student parliament, we discuss on university wide events and their financial support. As a faculty council, I try to build a community among the students. |
|
Miruna Milea Film & Television Griffith College Dublin |
I am a Film & Television graduate of Griffith College Dublin, the former SU Entertainment Officer and currently serve as President of the Griffith College Students’ Union. Throughout my time in the Students' Union, I have worked closely with a dedicated team of officers, class representatives, and college staff to support student engagement and help create inclusive spaces where students feel connected and represented. Collaboration is a central part of my role. I value working as part of a team, sharing ideas, and finding practical solutions together. Whether supporting events, contributing to student initiatives, or strengthening communication between students and the college, I believe collective effort leads to stronger outcomes for the student body. My background in Film & Television shapes the way I approach communication and community-building. I am particularly interested in storytelling, media, and visual culture, and I bring this creative perspective into my work. I remain committed to contributing positively to student life through teamwork, creativity, and open dialogue. |
|
Sofia Savicheva Communications and Media Production Griffith College |
I am Sofia Savicheva, a third-year student of Communications and Media Production programme at Griffth College. I have been an active participant in the social and academic lives of my institution since the very start of my first academic year here. Being a volunteer and student ambassador who spent more than 50 hours of voluntarily working, my path started dynamically and, hopefully, I could contribute to development and an increase in student engagement. My professional and academic developments found continuation in being the main editor of the award-winning magazine and, gladly, bringing an award to my faculty with the team, and being the captain of the girls' volleyball team. This allowed me to build connection with students, become more aware of their academic lives and become more confident to represent them on a higher level. Now, I am a Vice President of Education and Welfare at Griffith College Students' Union and a student representative from Griffith College for a national programme – National Academic Integrity Network. My main responsibilities include working with class representatives across our Dublin campus and contribution to new developments in academic integrity. Some of my initiatives include the creation of the college magazine, which is currently being produced and an integration of new policies in a class rep system aimed at increasing attendance and participation, which is at its course. And now, I am more than glad to invest my time in DIVERSE European University Alliance and my effort to represent students, contribute to their wellbeing and developments in higher education. |
|
Marvi Krich Bachelor of Science Computer Science Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm |
Marvi Krich is a member of the student parliament in which they’ve been elected to be part of the expert committee of international affairs as well as education and study. They are also part of the Bavarian Student Council, where regional topics are discussed. Marvi Krich also leads the queer student club. Previously they were a chair member of the computer science student council and vice chair of the student parliament. |
|
Michael Mario Lukas Robinson International Business and Technology (B.Sc.) Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm |
My name is Michael Robinson, I am 27 years old and I am speaker of my predominantly international Bachelor studies program B-IBT. I have been part of the student council for the last 3 years (studying a different Bachelor's degree before B-IBT), two of them as chair member of the student council. This year is also my 2nd year being part of the committee of experts for international relationships. I am employed at the Ohm as administrative assistant in the student office where I was recently responsible for controlling the structure of all of our Bachelor's degree programs. Lastly, I have been a student accreditation manager since 2023, being part of more than a dozen accreditations with more to come. |
|
Fleur Goffings Professional Bachelor Social Work PXL University of Applied Sciences and Arts |
Devoted member of the PXL Student Council, representing the students of Social Work. Busy but creative bee who's always in for a good conversation. I am also active in the city council of my town within the themes: youth, culture, library and well-being. I also volunteered 8 months at a project coordinated by the European Solidarity Corps and completed the Global Up Abroad course during that time. Obtaining new knowledge, skills and understanding to interact within a global and cross-cultural environment, I'm eager to make a difference and be a part of something beautiful. Before starting Social Work at PXL University, I enrolled in a teacher training for three years for the subjects music and English, without completing this. I volunteered in a shelter for the homeless, worked as a guard in a prison and a social guardian within an asylum centre. |
|
Tijs Vanlaere Professional Bachelor “Nature and Greenery Management” PXL University of Applied Sciences and Arts |
Who I am? I am Tijs Vanlaere, I am 19 years old and I am in my first bachelor year of Nature and Greenery Management. My mandates: Member of the PXL Students Council, Member of the PXL Students Facilities Board, PXL-delegate to the Flemish Union of Students (VVS), umbrella organisation of all universities in Flanders. And I will represent my institution at the DIVERSE Students Council. Nice to know about me: Beside my engagement for students' representation and my interest in nature, I really like to read books about (political) history, geopolitics and nature. |
|
Gabeta Paršuto Creative industries SMK College of Applied Science |
I am an active, highly motivated, and curious first-year student in the Creative Industries programme at SMK College of Applied Science. I enjoy trying new things, taking on challenges, and continuously developing myself both personally and professionally. I am actively involved in student representation. I am a member of the Student Council, where I am responsible for event organization, and I also participate in the International Student Council as an event host. Together with my teams, I have already contributed to the organization and hosting of numerous student events. In addition to my academic activities, I have three years of experience working as an event host for small occasions or parties. I also frequently volunteer by coordinating and supporting events, which has helped me develop strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills. Currently, my main focus is on my studies, student council activities, event organization, and professional work related to events. |
|
Simona Kačinskaitė Creative and Entertainment Industries SMK College of Applied Science |
I am a second-year student of Creative and Entertainment Industries at SMK College of Applied Science and an active member of the SMK Student Representation. I am involved in event organisation and auditing activities and contribute to various student-led initiatives within the institution. My engagement in extracurricular activities began during my school years, where I participated in events and student initiatives organised by the Telšiai municipality. I have also gained experience through volunteering at different events, which has helped me develop organisational and communication skills. I am academically oriented and socially active, with a strong interest in innovation and community-building. I am motivated to continuously develop my skills, actively contribute to student life, and support initiatives that create value for the academic community. |
|
Christopher David Öttl International Business Studies University of Applied Sciences Rosenheim |
Christopher Öttl is a Bachelor's student in International Business Studies at TH Rosenheim. He has gained practical experience in Financial Services Audit at EY and will further expand his consulting experience through an upcoming role in Management Consulting at BearingPoint, where he will support project teams in analysis and strategy-related tasks. In addition to his studies, he is involved in student consulting initiatives such as 180 Degrees Consulting, contributing to projects for non-profit organizations. His academic and professional interests focus on finance, strategy, and consulting. |
|
Alyaah Rocha Nunes Correia Bachelor's Degree in Management Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa |
A third year Bachelor's student in Management at Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa (Portugal), she currently serves as Vice-President of the Students Association for Management and Economics, where she is involved in student representation and academic initiatives. She is also part of the Students Union of Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa, holding the role of Tax Analyst. She has also taken part in a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) on the Organizational Happiness Plan, hosted by Rosenheim Technical University of Applied Sciences (Germany), a partner institution of the DIVERSE European University Alliance. This international experience strengthened her interest in organizational well-being and European cooperation. |
|
Valeria Staver Bachelor's Degree in Management Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa |
The student is a third-year undergraduate student in Management. She is actively involved in academic life at their home institution, currently serving as President of the Students Association for Management and Economics, where she promotse the academic and social integration of Management students, encourage student engagement, and represent their interests within the university. She also serves as a Fiscal Board Member of the Students' Association of Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa, contributing to the oversight, and responsible management of the association's activities. As part of her academic development, the student participated in a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) in Rosenheim, Germany, which included a one-week Erasmus mobility. This international experience provided exposure to a multicultural academic environment, fostering intercultural cooperation and the development of academic and personal skills. |
|
Andra-Daniela Bălan Medicine George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures |
I have been an active volunteer within the Students' League since 2020, gradually taking on increasing responsibilities and leadership roles. My journey within the organization began as a volunteer and continued with positions as Department Coordinator and Vice President, leading to my current role as President, a position I will hold until 2026. Throughout this progression, I have been deeply involved in both strategic decision-making and the operational management of student-led initiatives. Within the Students' League, I have had the opportunity to organize and coordinate a wide range of projects, including international congresses, educational camps for high school students, and large-scale student festivals. These experiences have significantly strengthened my leadership, communication, and organizational skills, while also enhancing my ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. At national level, I have held a representative position within the Federation of Medical Students' Associations in Romania (FASMR), through which I participated in national and international meetings and engaged in dialogue with student representatives from various academic and cultural backgrounds. In addition, I am an active member of the University Administrative Council and the Faculty of Medicine Council, where I contribute to institutional decision-making processes and advocate for the interests of students. My ongoing involvement reflects a strong commitment to student representation, academic governance, and the continuous development of the academic community. |
|
Ilinca-Theodora Bălașa-Chira Medicine George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures |
I have been an active volunteer within the Students' League of my home institution since 2022, progressively assuming greater responsibilities within the organization. I began my involvement as a volunteer and later advanced to the role of Department Coordinator, overseeing activities related to the cultural, social, and artistic dimension of student life. Through this role, I actively contributed to the development of initiatives that encouraged creativity, social engagement, and cultural expression, elements I strongly believe are essential for the balanced personal and professional development of medical students. Artistic and cultural perspectives foster empathy, critical thinking, and emotional resilience—qualities fundamental to future healthcare professionals. In parallel, I am a member of the Organizing Committee of our international congress, actively involved in the Scientific Department. My responsibilities include structuring the scientific programme, coordinating communication with lecturers, and ensuring the academic quality and relevance of the event. This experience has strengthened my organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to collaborate with academic professionals in an international context. Additionally, I have benefited twice from Erasmus mobility programmes and intend to pursue further opportunities in the future. These experiences have been invaluable, facilitating academic exchange, exposure to diverse medical systems, and meaningful interaction with students and healthcare institutions across Europe. I consider international mobility a cornerstone of modern medical education and an essential tool for broadening professional perspectives. |
|
María Victoria Madariaga Revuelta Master's Degree in General Health Psychology Universidad Europea del Atlántico |
I am a second-year Master's student in General Health Psychology at the Universidad Europea del Atlántico, holding a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. My academic and professional background is strongly focused on mental health, inclusion, and support for vulnerable populations. Alongside my studies, I have gained extensive experience working with children and adolescents, particularly those with ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions, through my role as a teacher in an academy providing individualized academic support. I have also worked as an au pair and camp instructor, which has allowed me to develop strong interpersonal, organizational, and conflict-resolution skills in educational and multicultural environments. My commitment to social responsibility is reflected in my volunteering experience with organizations such as AMPROS, the Red Cross supporting hospitalized children and refugees and the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC). Currently, I work as a group psychologist in the psycho-oncology area, where I design and implement therapeutic and psychoeducational group sessions. Through my academic training and practical experience, I have developed a strong interest in student wellbeing, inclusion, and mental health promotion within higher education, values that align closely with the mission of the DIVERSE European University Alliance. |
|
Jayani R.D. Boedhoe Law Hogeschool Windesheim |
Jayani is an active member of several student representative bodies within her home institution, where she is strongly committed to promoting student wellbeing. She also serves as a student coach for first-year students, supporting them during their transition into higher education. In addition, she will be undertaking an internship with a legal advisor specialising in education within her university of applied sciences, further developing her understanding of the legal and policy frameworks that shape higher education. At the national level, Jayani is involved with the Youth Education Council in The Hague and regularly participates in meetings with the Ministry of Education on student-related matters. Through her various roles, she advocates for an educational system in which learning skills and personal development are prioritised, enabling students to reach personal fulfilment. She emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, self-awareness, and understanding personal motivation, rather than focusing solely on grades, passing tests, diplomas, or status. Jayani believes that meaningful learning occurs when students step outside their comfort zones and learn from people who are different from themselves, an approach she actively pursues through her honours programme in Social Innovation. She also highlights the importance of transforming knowledge into wisdom through awareness, lived experiences, and shared learning. With her background in law, she aims to pursue a career in education policy advocacy and contribute to systemic change within the education sector. |
The Student Council plays an active role in shaping the student dimension of the Alliance.
The Council meets approximately every two months, mainly online to ensure participation from all partner institutions. Whenever possible, at least one in-person meeting per year is organised, with hosting responsibilities rotating among the partners.
The DIVERSE Secretariat provides logistical and operational support for organising meetings and facilitating collaboration.
Each year, the Council develops a work plan and contributes to several key initiatives of the Alliance, including:
Through these activities, the Student Council ensures that students play a meaningful role in shaping the future of the DIVERSE Alliance.