Did you enjoy being a Sabbatical officer? 
Being a sabbatical officer gave me experiences I would not otherwise have been able to gain in an early career job. The privilege of representing such a large student body to the University and community was a highly enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

What experience can you take from being in office?
Being a sabbatical helped me greatly in applying for jobs afterwards. The experience of presenting papers at important meetings, dealing with the media, designing and leading campaigns and speaking at national conferences were great assets to take into the world of work.

What would you do differently as a Sabb if you could go back and change anything?
With a bit more perspective I wouldn’t get so stressed about things! 
  

What was your most memorable moment being a Sabb?
Negotiating between a group of Chinese students and the Free Tibet group, the Rock Against Racism gig I organised and being re-elected.

Do you think you need to know a lot about the UPSU before being Sabbatical Officer?
No, as you can learn these things. As long as you have a passion for the role you are running for, you can learn anything else. I was not heavily involved in UPSU before I ran in the elections and many Officers have been in the same position. You have been a student at the University and therefore you have as much right as anyone else to run in the elections.

What qualities would be good for someone looking to do your role?
An interest in student welfare and compassion for others is fairly crucial to the role as you will essentially be striving to help people and make their lives a little better.  

What do you miss about being a sabbatical officer?
The ability to have a voice at a high level in the University.

Do you think being a sabbatical officer has benefited you to further your career?
Immeasurably. I think this will be even more beneficial for students running in the elections now. With so few jobs out there, this can be an almost guaranteed way into a good career providing you make the most of your time as an officer.

What do you hope you have been remembered for as your time as a Sabb?
Leading anti-racism campaigns and sticking up for students who needed help.

Would you recommend being a sabbatical officer to a friend?
Yes - see above!