After five years in Aber, it is now time for me to say goodbye and I don’t even know where to begin. After having experience as Social Sec for Cocktail Society, I was really intrigued to see how the Undeb worked behind the scenes; which was one of the reasons I wanted to run for this role. I also knew it would be a great experience and I was correct. This past year has defied all my expectations.
I didn’t know what to expect when taking on this role, from event hosting to the policies and priorities, I was nervous about how I would be able to handle it all. But thanks to the amazing staff at the Undeb, it came very naturally. A year ago, I was unaware of all my responsibilities and worried about what I didn’t know but now I can not be more confident in my abilities as an officer. From our Anti-Spiking campaign to Senedd reports to hosting Varsity, so much of it was unexpected but it made my experience as an officer unique and special.
My highlights of the year have been:
Hosting Superteams- To be the host of one of the biggest events in the academic year, one that is highly anticipated by our students was very rewarding. Hosting the afterparties might have been slightly chaotic but it made it even more fun and enjoyable. I didn’t enjoy the 45 hours of overtime, but it was worth it to be a part of the event.
Celebrates Awards- In case you haven’t noticed a theme, I love being on stage. But this was different. Taking on a large part of the TLSE awards and hosting the Club and Soc awards was a great experience. It is such an uplifting event, recognising the hard work and effort all our students have put in this year. Seeing groups celebrated for their Varsity wins, RAG events, and local community work.
As I finish reflecting on my year as Opps Officer, I want to thank all the students who have made a difference this year. Thank you to all the volunteers who have helped at events this year, some of you dedicated whole weekends to helping. Thank you to my Sports, Societies and Volunteering Project Senedd Reps, thank you for sitting on our Advisory Boards and being a voice for the students and thank you to the Volunteer Officers I had the pleasure of working with this year on my housing campaign and our hidden costs campaigns.
I also want to again, thank the staff at the Undeb and the amazing officer team. I couldn’t have had a better group of girls to share this experience with. Working with Esperanza, Nanw, Millie and Tanaka has been the best experience and I am so proud of us all.