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I first got involved in PolSoc in my first year, when my friends and I decided to attend one of the first events put on – a talk with a local MP. It was such an amazing opportunity to hear about the career and lifestyle of a local politician, and ask them questions about life in Parliament/politics generally.

From then, my friends and I got more and more involved throughout the year, even going on the trip to Edinburgh to visit Holyrood and the Christmas markets! The bond between the committee members really made an impression on me, as well as the range in events that the society holds. I think the variety in PolSoc events is really unique, and one of its biggest selling points. I also think it facilitates close friendships, whether that’s through the football or netball teams, regular attendees of political events, or just going to the socials.

I decided to run for the position of Political Events Secretary pretty much as soon as the roles were advertised. I ran alongside my friend (and now co-secretary) Abbie, which was perfect as the role is best split between two people. Being Political Events Secretary definitely has some stress associated with it, there’s a lot of responsibility for many things, but it’s been something I have absolutely loved and would do again in a heartbeat. It involves a lot of reaching out to potential speakers, both internal within the department and external, and you have to get used to rejections/being ghosted! You are also responsible for booking rooms, making sure the event is advertised enough, and creating ways of measuring participation. It’s a surprisingly creative role, because you’re constantly thinking of ways to keep political events interesting and accessible, while trying to avoid having too many of the same type.

There’s been loads of great memories from PolSoc, but I would say so far one of my favourites has been the Summer Ball. I loved having the opportunity to dress up, eat a great meal, and spend an evening with people I’d been going to events with all year. The Edinburgh trip was also amazing, as were all the political events! Another highlight has to be the roundtable event we organised this year to discuss the US election – we had an incredible turnout and super high engagement with really interesting speakers.

Overall, PolSoc has really helped shape my university experience so far, and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone.

Right now, we have our Athens trip coming up in Easter, and lots of political events planned for this second (and final) semester! We also have this year’s Summer Ball, which I already know is going to be, once again, great.

If I had any advice for a new student considering joining Politics Society, it would be to just get yourself to the next social or political event! There’s so many options, both going out and sober, so there really is an opportunity for everyone. My very first experience with PolSoc was showing up to a Politics in the Pub social in Freshers, knowing basically nobody, and I could not be more grateful that I forced myself to go. It’s a society I’m proud to be part of, and I push it anywhere and anytime I can!