Moray woman lands top student role
A Moray woman is taking up the top job in the University of the Highlands and Islands’ Students’ Association. Katrina Paton, 32, from Elgin, has been voted as the president of Ā鶹ֱ²„SA, the organisation that represents the 7,500 students in Ā鶹ֱ²„ 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 Ā鶹ֱ²„. 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 Studentsā Association following a suggestion from a tutor. She explains: āMy youngest child was still at primary school and the nearest place I could do a MSc in social work was Aberdeen. He wasnāt 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 Ā鶹ֱ²„SA vice-president as I had already demonstrated my commitment to ensuring that studentsā rights are upheld.ā
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: āEnsuring that all decisions made by the university are in the best interests of students and concentrating on further growth and development of Ā鶹ֱ²„SA.ā She also hopes to enter a University of the Highlands and Islandsā team into University Challenge.
Commenting on Katrinaās election, head of student services at the university, Dr Iain Morrison, said: āKatrina 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.ā
After her year in office, Katrina hopes to return to study at the university. She says: āIām keen to continue my studies at Ā鶹ֱ²„ and hopefully gain a PhD in restorative practice or youth justice. Whatever I do, Iāll be looking for work that challenges and enhances me, but in the current climate I think itās essential to remain flexible and open to new experiences. Iām eternally grateful to Ā鶹ֱ²„ for giving me the opportunity to gain a university education where other institutions were inaccessible.ā
Media contact
Susan Szymborski
Communications officer
01463 279222
susan.szymborski@uhi.ac.uk