Maria Rubbani
president@bartslondon.com
su-vpbartsandthelondon@qmul.ac.uk
Tell us a bit about yourself, your role, and your time at Queen Mary and Barts and The London
Hi, I’m Maria — a fourth-year medic and one of the six full-time, elected Students’ Union Officers. I’m currently the Vice President for Barts and The London, which means I represent all students within the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry (FMD).
Alongside the brilliant BLSA Board — a team of 22 elected student reps — I work to improve your student experience, from education and wellbeing to societies, events, and liberation. I also work closely with senior faculty members like Professor Sir Mark Caulfield to help strengthen the student–staff relationship and ensure your voice is heard at every level.
My time at QM has been anything but ordinary. I got my offer just three weeks before induction and moved down from Manchester into a whirlwind of Airbnbs, house-hunting, and health challenges. It took me a while to settle — but those early struggles connected me with the kindest people and restored my faith in community and compassion. I wouldn't trade that experience for anything.
Follow us on Instagram (@officialblsa) to stay updated and reach out if you ever need support — or if you’d like to get involved!
Favourite spot on any of our campuses?
The canalside at Mile End — it’s such a peaceful place to pause and breathe. At Whitechapel, you’ll usually find me in The Griff or the Foyer — they’re the heartbeats of our campus life.
If you could recommend one thing the Students’ Union has on offer for students to get involved in, what would it be?
Societies! Whether you’re joining one, starting your own, or running for a committee position — it’s one of the best ways to make connections and grow. And of course, the BLSA Board — the opportunity to help shape the student experience is unmatched.
Top study tip?
Work smarter, not harder. Use tools like RemNote to combine notes and flashcards in one — it saves time and helps you retain information far more efficiently.
Tell us about a hobby you do and why you love it.
Exploration — whether it’s food, travel, or leadership roles like BLSA President, I love giving things a try at least once. Every experience is an opportunity for growth. You never know what you’ll discover about the world — or yourself.
What’s one thing at Uni that you couldn’t live without?
The FMD medic and dental student community. The support, the passion, the people — they make this experience what it is.
What’s your ideal day out in London?
Jumping on the Elizabeth Line and seeing where it takes me — it’s got air conditioning (a lifesaver in summer), and I love hopping off at Bond Street. It reminds me of the version of London I used to see on TV as a kid.
What’s a piece of advice you’d give to students?
Lean into the chaos. University is a wild ride — a time when you’re deconstructed and rebuilt in the best way. You’ll be challenged, surprised, stretched, and inspired. It's the ultimate character development arc — a small-scale rehearsal for the real world. So enjoy the journey, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when it gets tough.
If you could have one superhero power, what would it be?
Mind reading — I think it would make communication and understanding so much easier (though also, maybe a bit overwhelming!).
What are you most looking forward to this year?
Seeing the impact of the changes we’re working on — both the ones students can see and the ones happening behind the scenes. I’m hopeful that they’ll bring about real, lasting improvements for everyone in FMD.
View my manifesto