Laura Lewis (Co-President, Welfare & Diversity), discusses what being a Sabbatical Officer is all about in her latest blog.
Being a Sabbatical Officer (sabb) has been one of the most interesting experiences I’ve had during my time here at Royal Holloway. I’ve learnt so much over the last six months and I know that the rest of my year is going to be just as exciting.
Sabb life has given me many new experiences and an introduction to a huge range of topics, including the structure of the university, the importance of student welfare, and how necessary representation is. I’ve been able to sit on committees and get involved in the decision making process within the SU and at the top of the College.
Daily Life & Campaigns
I’ve learnt how to run campaigns and met the amazing students who help to put the ideas into action. One of my favourite parts of this role is meeting new people from all over the world, whose experiences of the University are all completely different and lovely to hear about.
Daily life as a sabb can range from sitting on important College meetings, or talking about difficult topics like mental health, to handing out fruit to students or buying bulk orders of condoms… The world of Students' Unions is weird and wonderful, and the fact that there are so many changes day to day has really taught me how to think on my feet and enjoy the excitement.
Being A Sabb
Lots of people think that being a sabb means being loud, confident and having strong opinions about everything. That might help, but I definitely wouldn’t have described myself in that way before starting this job. I was quiet, unsure about running in elections and public speaking was my worst nightmare. Since September, I’ve spoken in front of hundreds of students, written blog posts about issues that are important to me and voiced my thoughts in meetings.
Making a real difference within the SU has taught me to be confident and vocal about my opinions, and to be comfortable to challenge others or be challenged, when I encounter new situations. This role has given me such a brilliant experience that I don’t think I would have gained in any other job.
Laura Lewis
Co-President, Welfare and Diversity