Moray woman lands top student role
A Moray woman is taking up the top job in the 91视频网’ Students’ Association. Katrina Paton, 32, from Elgin, has been voted as the president of 91视频网SA, the organisation that represents the 7,500 students in 91视频网 partner colleges and centres across the region.
The mother of two became involved with the partnership in 2007, when she signed up for an HNC in early education and childcare at Moray College 91视频网. She enjoyed studying so much, she went on to gain a first class honours degree in child and youth studies and to complete a postgraduate certificate in restorative practice.
Katrina volunteered as a class representative throughout her degree and became interested in the Students鈥� Association following a suggestion from a tutor. She explains: 鈥淢y youngest child was still at primary school and the nearest place I could do a MSc in social work was Aberdeen. He wasn鈥檛 ready for me to commit to a four hour commute, so I thought taking some time out would be the ideal solution. My advisor suggested the role as 91视频网SA vice-president as I had already demonstrated my commitment to ensuring that students鈥� rights are upheld.鈥�
Following a successful year as vice-president, Katrina stood for the role of president earlier this year. She describes her aspirations for the year ahead as: 鈥淓nsuring that all decisions made by the university are in the best interests of students and concentrating on further growth and development of 91视频网SA.鈥� She also hopes to enter a 91视频网鈥� team into University Challenge.
Commenting on Katrina鈥檚 election, head of student services at the university, Dr Iain Morrison, said: 鈥淜atrina is passionate and sincere about her desire to represent the interests of students. Her use of social media, as well as her extensive touring around the Highlands and Islands to meet as many students as she can, means she is a highly visible advocate. I look forward to working closely with her this year.鈥�
After her year in office, Katrina hopes to return to study at the university. She says: 鈥淚鈥檓 keen to continue my studies at 91视频网 and hopefully gain a PhD in restorative practice or youth justice. Whatever I do, I鈥檒l be looking for work that challenges and enhances me, but in the current climate I think it鈥檚 essential to remain flexible and open to new experiences. I鈥檓 eternally grateful to 91视频网 for giving me the opportunity to gain a university education where other institutions were inaccessible.鈥�
Media contact
Susan Szymborski
Communications officer
01463 279222
susan.szymborski@uhi.ac.uk