Candidate Profile

Tell students about yourself

I’m Beth, I come from a town just outside Birmingham called Sandwell and I am a second-year sociology undergraduate. I am also president of the 93% Club Durham, one of Durham's biggest societies which represents the experiences and desires of state educated students whilst providing a welcoming environment for all.

If elected, what sort of Officer can students expect you be?

If elected, you can expect a compassionate and eager officer determined to improve student experience at Durham University. I have a great interest in hearing the varied experiences of all students whether good or bad and seeing where I can aid in the resolution of any potential issues. As liberation officer I strive for everyone to feel comfortable approaching me and discussing any barriers or difficulties they may be facing which is impacting their time at Durham. As president of the 93% Club Durham, I have experience working with both students and staff to improve the university life of state school students, therefore I believe any other group of individuals could confidently put their trust in me to ensure Durham is a welcoming and safe institution for all students.

Why is this role important to you?

As a state school student coming to an institution as prestigious as Durham, it was a massive shock for me and in my first year often felt out of place and undeserving of my achievements. These feelings of imposter syndrome were then turned into feelings of motivation for change, both for me and any other underrepresented group at university. Educational institutions should be accessible for everyone, not just in the process of securing your place to study but also in the years you spend here. University should be full of opportunities for the many not the few. Whether facing discrimination or financial barriers related to class issues, I’d love to help with liberating all voices and perspectives at Durham!

What is your pitch to students?

My pitch is for everyone to be heard and recognised, as President of the 93% Club you can already see how passionate I am about making Durham a place where all students are included and feel a sense of belonging and community despite any internalised beliefs that may come with being a student at a prestigious university.