First this week we hear from Alun Minifey who was elected Activities Officer 2010-11 and again in 2011-12. Alun is currently Head of Student Opportunities at University of East Anglia (UEA) Students’ Union
Why did you choose that role?
As it directly coincided with developing sports, societies and events on campus. I wanted to develop them to be bigger and better.
What are your favourite memories from standing in the elections and becoming a Full-time Officer?
Winning in my first-year election was an obvious highlight as I didn’t think I would win! But my highlights as an officer was winning Varsity that we worked so hard to expand in my first year as well as developing the Team Aber concept! What activities officer doesn’t love organising Superteams!
What do you think you learnt from standing in the elections and becoming a Full-time Officer?
You get out what you put in, if you work hard you will have the best time! If you don’t you can float through the year, look back and regret it. I was exposed to management of an organisation at the top level that has allowed me the experience to go on and lead an organisation now on a strategic level.
What advice do you have for anyone thinking of standing in the elections?
Be prepared to be tired and pre-cook some food to eat late at night! Engage your friends in the elections to help you!
If you could go back would you do it all again? If not what would you do differently?
Yes, it was a great two years working with great people! I probably wouldn’t eat a constant stream of sausage rolls from the underground!
If you could sum up your experiences in five words what would they be?
Fun, Tiring, Inspiring, Busy, Change