What do you do?

The President's Job is so varied - you have to oversee all areas of activity in the Union as well as being the main point of contact for all media enquiries, meeting with local leaders and representing student concerns to the University. 

What part of your job do you enjoy the most?

Helping students in the amazing range of activities they get up to. 

What successes have you had?

Getting the University to employ a dedicated Energy and Environmental Manager to save  money and reduce our Carbon Emissions. I've also improved the democratic processes, and this year has been a catalyst for long term improvements. 

How many of your manifesto pledges have you achieved?

All of them! Participation is increasing, we are more democratic, we are Greener than ever before and we are running lots of campaigns on local and National issues. 

What's the most frustrating part of your position?

So much to do and so little time! 

Would you recommend the role to other students?

Absolutely. These jobs are unique in the level of responsibility, the working environment and the real chance to make a difference. 

What was the hardest part about the 2007 elections for you?

Running around talking to as many students as possible! 

... and the best part?

Running around talking to as many students as possible! 

In 2008/2009, what will the Sabb team need to work the hardest on?

We are looking at a 3-5 year strategy, and we are undergoing a 2 year Audit process to see if we are working as effectively as possible. This is so important to strengthen what we do. 

If you could offer your successor one piece of advice, what would it be?

The pressure of the role is immense, you have many different responsibilities as well as keeping up with all Higher Education and Social Justice issues -  make sure you can speed read!  

What does your successor need more than anything else to be successful?

A real passion for promoting, defending and extending the rights of students - there is no point going for these roles if you're not going to give 100%. 

Find out more 

You can also read what Elle had to say about her role and aims at the start of the year on her Sabb page.