- What course are you studying?
I am a second year Arts student studying Sociology and Political Science and English. I am a mature student having originally started in 2007, I had to take a break from my studies due to my son falling ill (he’s all good now). Despite me leaving my studies, I still remained active in student life, volunteering with the Students’ Union and an annual highlight of my year is working with Sláinte Soc for the Teddy Bears Hospital. Over the years I have met many a great education officer, who have all encouraged me to return to my studies. If elected, I hope to be able to offer similar encouragement to any student who crosses my path.
- What is your interpretation of the role of Education Officer?
The role of the Education Officer is to be there for any student and help with any educational needs/issues, be it unique to individual or larger groups of students. Where appropriate those issues will be passed onto the relevant academic/admin.
- I heard you are a mature student, what advantages do you think this gives you if any?
I do not think being a mature student necessarily gives me an ‘advantage’. Hopefully I would be able to help guide students past some of the pitfalls I myself fell into. I personally found previous SU Ed Officers invaluable during these times, and feel now is time for me to pay it forward to other students.
- Will you be working with Louis Courtney to get acclimated to the role of VP/Education Officer?
If elected I will work with Louis to ensure a smooth handover of duties. It is important for the students to have continuity of care. I would be keen to ensure that nothing is affected by the transition.
- Do you think that you are at a disadvantage starting this role a few weeks into the academic year?
My biggest worry with a late start would be if a student has previously been looking for help already, they might worry about continuity of care. However, if elected I will do everything in my power to ensure that no student feels forgotten or suffer in any way due to this changeover.
- Are you happy to be running uncontested?
Ideally it would be great if it were a highly contested position so that students could elect the person they feel most suitable. However, I will do my utmost to be that person if elected regardless of the number of names on the ballot.
- What are your overall goals in the next year? How do you plan on achieving them?
I will expand on my goals in my manifesto when it is published on Sunday, but two issues in brief are the ongoing issues with registration. Also, since 2006 there has been no increase in funding for a wide range of student services, despite an ever-growing student population. Finally I believe the SU is not just a building, and I want to be out and about with the students.
- This summer dozens of BA Connect students were refunded for poor course quality. What do you think you can do to prevent or aid in situations like this in your time as an officer?
If any student feels their course is not of sufficiently high standard, I would hope that they would not hesitate to bring it to my attention.