Name & Role
Laura
Llywydd Academic
Short introduction…
After completing my English Literature BA, I’m currently finishing my Literary Studies MA and am excited to start my new role at the Undeb!
Tell us an interesting or random fact about yourself...
I once played Abba on the flute dressed up as a wombat for a World Book Day talent show in primary school
Choose three words that best describe you.
friendly
motivated
curious
It’s your last meal on earth…what’s on the menu? & which 3 celebrity would you invite for food?
Vegetable gyozas, pumpkin katsu curry and avocado maki, maybe with peach ice tea. I’d invite David Tennant, Peter Capaldi and Bob Mortimer for a good laugh.
What are your hobbies or interests?
Art (especially watercolours)
Reading (I’m a literature student after all)
Lots of nerdy things – Doctor Who, Moomins, Merlin, Rocky Horror Picture Show, The X Files
Why did you choose to stand for this role?
It’s a role that has interested me for a few years so now my studies are about finished, I thought I might as well see what I can do!
What are you most looking forward to this year?
I’m excited to talk to students and staff members to better understand students’ current academic needs.
What are some of the causes you care about?
I’m very passionate about making sure courses are accessible and inclusive.
What is your favourite Aberystwyth hangout?
Any beach! Probably stopping to get a drink from My Friend’s Place on the way.
If you could be an animal what would you be and why?
Gibbon monkey – I love how freely they move and would love to swing from the trees.
Do you have any out there traditions or strange superstitions?
At least for two years now, my friends and I have tried to eat twelve grapes under the table at midnight on New Year’s Eve (and normally ended up accidentally rolling them across the floor).
What’s your unpopular opinion?
Ross is the worst character from Friends (I have been surprised by the number of people who disagree with me about this).
What one thing do you think everyone should do/try at least once in their lifetime? (give a personal example if you want)
It sounds silly but invest time in a hobby by yourself! It’s easy to forget to make time to enjoy your own company but it’s so important.
You are on your way to work on a Monday morning…what song comes on as your soundtrack?
Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand or Judas by Lady Gaga but, anything by Lady Gaga, Marina, Mitski, The Cure, Franz Ferdinand or Olivia Rodrigo.
Name a favourite place you have visited and why.
Glencoe in Scotland is so beautiful and I love going on boat tours in the misty Scottish lochs. Anywhere misty and secluded in Scotland is gorgeous.
RESULTS/CLEARING:
Did you come to Aber through clearing? What was your experience like?
I decided to make Aber my first choice within the last few days after attending a sunny open day before submitting my UCAS decision and have never regretted it.
Why choose Aber?
The town is so lovely and feels so welcoming. It’s so freeing to be so close to the sea.
FRESHERS:
How to make friends during Freshers?
Go to as many activities and meet as many people as you can.
What are your top tips for any new students starting at Aberystwyth in September?
Again, try to talk to as many people as you can, and definitely go to the Freshers Fair even if you don’t know if you want to join any societies or clubs yet. Although remember that it’s never too late to get to know people on your course or join a new club or society later on in the year. Don’t be put off by thinking that everyone has settled down, most people still want to make new friends!
What is your favourite Freshers memory?
Probably the Freshers Closing Party – it was a fun celebration to end the week and mentally prepare for lectures and seminars to start.
HOUSING:
What are your top tips for housing/moving in with friends in Aber?
Be clear with your boundaries. Clarity is kindness. You can be friends with people and not want to talk to them all the time. You need rest!
EXAMS:
What are your top tips for coping with exam stress?
Make plans or consider rewards to look forward to and don’t feel guilty for taking breaks otherwise your work quality will be terrible because you will be burnt out anyway. Trust yourself to know your limits and when you need breaks. You might need to experiment with the way you work.
ELECTIONS:
What are your top tip for standing in a Students’ Union election?
Talk, talk, talk to people! If you understand the concerns and worries of people, this will help you work out your campaign and what you might want to focus on if you get elected.
COST OF LIVING:
Do you have any money saving tips that helped you out as a student?
Buy your groceries later on in the evenings so there will be more things reduced.
Favourite ‘cheap’ meal to cook?
Cheesy omelette with spinach, tomato and a tortilla wrap is one of my favourite meals to make. Maybe with a side of bread and butter or more vegetables.
ABER:
Where is your favourite place for food and café in Aber?
Medina is lovely! I also always love a Greggs.
How would you spend your ideal day in Aber?
On the beach with friends, getting ice cream and chips. End it with the arcade and a drink at the Inn on the Pier.
What is your favourite thing to do in Aber?
Hang on the beach with friends, maybe reading or swimming, or on a rainy day, go charity shopping. There are so many good charity shops in Aber.