We spoke to UWLSU President, Maisie, to get an insight into what it’s really like being a Sabbatical Officer. If you want to know about the role, keep reading to find out her answers...
What are some of your favourite things to do in your role and why?
One of my favourite things is speaking to students. Being a Sabb is a fantastic opportunity to get to know so many different students! I’m also very grateful to be able to give a speech for all new students on their first day at UWL, during induction. It can make them feel a lot more comfortable throughout the year to come up to me and say hello and it means I get to know so many more students and ask them how we can make their experience better.
In what moments do you feel you are really making a difference?
Mainly speaking to students; asking them what they would like and then seeing their requests come to fruition. Being able to give them the opportunity to see their ideas and knowledge come forward and get acted on is a huge privilege. Seeing students at events is so much fun too; to see them enjoy themselves and meet new people.
Why did you originally want to be a Sabb?
I wanted the opportunity to make a difference within the university as well as nationally. I was previously an NUS Delegate, and it gave me a taste of the difference I could make as a student. Also, seeing the work that the SU does really encouraged me to want to be part of that and make a difference in any way that I could.
What skills have you developed in the position?
Definitely talking to people, listening as well – being that ear for students that they can come and talk to about anything they need to. I’ve also learnt a lot of professional skills, like conducting myself in meetings and working in an office environment; these are all things that have been really beneficial for me.
What's something you have learned that you wouldn't have otherwise?
Learning how to run events really shocked me when I first started the role. It’s something that I’d never really thought about or realised all of the things that go into them. We’re currently working on Varsity and Union Awards and seeing the work that goes into that isn’t something I realised I’d learn so much about or get to play a part in when I started the job.
What's the run through of a typical day as President?
I normally come into the office and first have a catch up with our CEO, Tye. Every month I have a meeting with the Vice Chancellor, Peter John, as well as catch ups with the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Sara, to talk about anything and everything we are working on or want to make a change with. At the moment the Sabbs are having a lot of meetings about Varsity, Union Awards, and Star Awards, where we are planning the events with different teams in the SU. I also work on my priorities every day in the office, which includes having chats with different staff in the SU to work on progressing them. I love making time to chat to different students around campus to see how they’re getting on and just to get to know everyone!
What advice would you give to someone thinking of running in the Sabb elections?
Talk to as many people as you can. The students are the reason this job was created; they are the reason that we are needed and necessary. Remember to be yourself, be open, and always be passionate about what you want to do in the university and the SU. Throughout your campaign be present and be there whenever you can. One thing I would say is to just have fun with it, it can get stressful, but the main thing is to enjoy yourself. It’s a fantastic job and the election is part of that job! Lastly, try not to stress too much; after a long day, take some time to chill, relax and take a break from it all.
If you’re an aspiring Sabbatical Officer or a student voting in the elections, keep an eye on our social media for updates! If you want to nominate yourself, follow this link. The deadline for nominations is the 14th March 2023.
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