Did you enjoy being a Sabbatical officer?
Absolutely! It was a superb year, I couldn’t have imagined the impact my year as a sabb had on my future career and life choices when I first submitted my nomination.

What experience can you take from being in office?
My year in office provided me skills and experiences that have served me well in my future career. Critically, leadership, decision-making, financial acumen, diplomacy, public speaking, team-working, performance management and most importantly, the impact individuals can have when they come together in a coordinated and unified way.

What would you do differently as a Sabb if you could go back and change anything?
Enjoy the moment more and make the most of, what is in effect, a very short time to make a difference.
  

What was your most memorable moment being a Sabb?
Too many! Probably a General Meeting attended by over 800 students, the Vice-Chancellor and his executive team on the back of the announcement to close three of the University’s campuses. The University’s great hall was packed with print and broadcast journalists doing their best to get it.

Do you think you need to know a lot about the UPSU before being Sabbatical Officer?
I didn’t know a thing! I had been involved in the rugby club and used the Union facilities, but I didn’t have the first clue about the running of the Union. At points this was a real advantage.  

What qualities would be good for someone looking to do your role?
The ability to take difficult decisions and have the courage of your conviction.

What do you miss about being a sabbatical officer?
Working within a team of sabbs who are all in the same boat.

Do you think being a sabbatical officer has benefited you to further your career?
It was the best possible training for my future career - I am now the Chief Executive of a Students’ Union!

What do you hope you have been remembered for as your time as a Sabb?
Giving it 100%.

Would you recommend being a sabbatical officer to a friend?
Without a doubt.