Did you enjoy being a Sabbatical officer?
Yes, it was an experience that I will never forget and one that is unique to anyone that undertakes it. It opened my eyes to things I wouldn’t have ever dreamt of previously and I was fortunate to make some great friends in the process. 

What experience can you take from being in office?
The skills that I learnt during the 2 years I was an officer has been the key to many life decisions that I have taken since. The confidence and energy you get from working with students is second to none and seeing change can be extremely rewarding; especially when it continues to play a large part of UPSU’s future. The people that you meet and the networking opportunities within it can open up many doors for personal and professional development. Although it was hard work and at time I was placed outside my comfort zone, I will always remember the many many laughs. 

What would you do differently as a Sabb if you could go back and change anything?
Nothing.   

What was your most memorable moment being a Sabb?
Seeing Sport becoming a larger part of the student experience and helping to ensure its future was taken seriously was great. The team that I worked with was also fantastic and without them I doubt it would have been as rewarding, however, the most memorable moment has got to be winning the election and then being re-elected (knowing that all the hard work had paid off!!). 

Do you think you need to know a lot about the UPSU before being Sabbatical Officer?
You certainly need to be heavily involved in some way or another. I was always very active in more than 1 sports club (either as Chairman or participating in training) and that helped when it came to election time. I wasn’t too aware of UPSU’s vision; however, I knew what students felt towards sport and had a passion to make a difference! 

What qualities would be good for someone looking to do your role? 
I don’t believe that there is a fixed mould for sport and any individual can bring a different dynamic to the role. For me personally I’d like to see someone that has the following qualities:

- Have pride and passion for sport
- Conscientious and empathetic towards people (can listen to students!!)
- Good leadership skills
- An ability to act on information and instinct
- A desire to progress personally and professionally
- Is professional but has a great sense of humour.
  

What do you miss about being a sabbatical officer?
Making a difference to students lives, being around the buzz of student activity, working with the individuals at UPSU (the 3 N’s!) and knowing that you didn’t turn up to work because you had to but because you genuinely wanted to be there!

Do you think being a sabbatical officer has benefited you to further your career?
Without a doubt! It is more unique than anything you can get on a CV; you cannot pay for this experience or the people and information you are part of. 

What do you hope you have been remembered for as your time as a Sabb?
Ooh, that’s a tough one. I hope that people think I was: 

- Hard working
- Part of a fantastic Sabb team 08/09
- Made a positive difference
- Passionate
- Truly developed sport

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