UPSU LGBT Society

Greg Hall, applying for Social Secretary

Hello, for those of you who have not met me yet my name is Greg and the position, which I am applying for next year, is Social Secretary.

I joined the LGBT when I started Portsmouth University last year and haven’t looked back. As a member of the society I have been supported by others through my ups and downs and been on some absolutely fantastic trips arranged by the committee. As a member of the committee as Treasurer, I have learnt how much work is needed to organise everything but also, how much fun we all have doing it.

Now focusing on the important stuff, what actually qualifies me to become your Social Secretary?

Whilst being a member of the committee this year I have learnt a great deal about the amount of diplomacy and understanding which is needed to make sure everything we aim to achieve runs smoothly. I feel that through the Drama element of my course I have been forced to be diplomatic by understanding that even if you do not like someone’s idea or opinion you cannot simply ignore them or shout them down, you must aim to solve the argument amicably for the benefit of others.

My other course film-studies also helps me as many of my deadlines this semester got pulled forward with very little prior warning. This meant that all my work had to be completed earlier than expected however, still to the same standard. I believe this will aid me in my position as sometimes I know events have to be moved and everything that was going to happen at the event must be rescheduled with the minimum amount of stress and fuss.

Drama like the committee requires a large amount of co-operation as well as the need to work independently. This teamwork has enforced upon me the importance of working as a unit, working on my own and how both can merit the smooth running of the society.

The LGBT has really improved my life and made a positive impact on me throughout the year. I wish now to pursue another position within the committee, which allows me to be more hands on and presents me with a bigger challenge.

Seconding statement by Richard Davies, Current UPSU-LGBT Social Secretary and Vice President.

Firstly I would like to say that this year has shown me what a huge task the organising and running of social events for the society really is. One that requires determination, perseverance, strength of character and commitment. And it is these very qualities that I have come to find in Greg Hall.

Becoming part of the committee in your first year is an achievement in itself, yet to continue your commitment to the society through-out the year consistently is greater still. Greg has pushed himself out into our society, taking part in not only the organisational side of events, but actually supporting them by turning up, and allowing people to see for themselves how much the LGBT means to him. A social secretary should be someone who makes it their business to know what members want out of the society, one who can help to provide the experiences which make our time at university the best and most memorable of our lives. Therefore I must say that in this I believe, and I hope you agree, that this year there is clearly no-one that rivals Greg in being able to uphold this position on the committee and improve upon what has come before, as we all strive to do each year.