The joy of... columns
Well, having contributed to this esteemed organ more than a dozen times throughout the year, this is it – my last column. I’m quite sad really... in more ways than one.
Accommodation
It was my birthday on Tuesday, and I was stuck at work, busy interviewing wardens for the new halls which are being opened to replace the capacity lost by the demolition of Southside. Now that’s been an interesting project, and not without its controversies either! Needless to say, I don’t want to reopen any cans of worms (since Mustafa seems able enough at that), but I am glad that the College is finally getting round to sorting out a hall of residence which is ceasing to operate as it should. I don’t say that without affection for the place though, since I lived there for three years; I think we should all give the hall, and the bar, a good send-off, and look forward to ushering in the new.
Accommodation has probably been one of the more interesting (and contentious at times) areas of my job. I have enjoyed being involved in the selection of new wardens and subwardens, and firmly believe that the quality of pastoral care that freshers receive in our halls easily outstrips the competition from other universities. So well done to the wardens for that! I have been quite busy working with Residences to develop a good exit survey, so that we can improve the provision of accommodation to future generations of students.
Patience
It always seems to be future generations who benefit from our labours. A turning point in my job was when I stopped expecting instant results and recognised that many of the things I was working on would not benefit the student body until future years. Once I realised that, my frustration diminished and my enthusiasm increased. I guess that’s one reason why colleagues of mine have decided to stand for sabbatical positions for a second year, so that they can see through the work they’ve started.
Some things I’ve been involved in, such as the Strategic Review and the QAA Audit, may take quite a few years to manifest themselves. I think it would be quite interesting to come back in ten years’ time to see the transformation to Princes Gardens and the Union Building. Hopefully I’ll have better things to do.
Your Union
We’ve said it countless times before, but this is your Union, and you should use it as such. You should take the opportunities which are available to make your views known. You could always stand to serve on a committee, or Council. You could vote! Why am I telling you all this now, at the end of the year? Maybe you haven’t been involved in the Union or one of its clubs and societies this year... you could reflect over the summer about what you want to get out of your student experience, since you only get one shot at it. Why not come to the Summer Ball on Saturday? And yes, that was a cheap plug.
And finally…
As I said before, this is my last column. It’s been a pleasure working for you, and with you, if you are a fellow officer or member of College or Union staff. I’ve had a great year. Enjoy the summer, and don’t get sunburnt.
