Let's say hello to...
Improving HW Academic Life: from Guinea Pigs to Extensions.
Hi! I’m Holly, your Vice President Academic here at Heriot-Watt Student Union. If you’re just arriving on campus, you might not have any idea what that means, but in short, I’m here to make your academic life better.
My job is all about championing your voice when it comes to your studies. From assessment policies to dissertation support, I make sure that your time at Heriot-Watt is the best it can be. One day I might be deep in global strategy meetings, and the next I’m helping students with their academic concerns or planning campaigns to improve teaching and learning. It’s a mix of serious work and fun moments and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I’m originally from Fife and came to Edinburgh for uni. I started at the Union back in 2022 as a marketing intern. That was my first taste of what it means to work on things that really impact students. I joined the Welcome Team, then became the Department Officer for Management. Seeing the amazing work that previous officers had done made me realise that I wanted to be part of creating change too. So, I ran for Vice President Academic, and here I am.
I’ve always loved the academic side of university life, which is why this role felt like a natural progression. One of the projects I’m proudest of? Bringing Therapets to campus, especially the guinea pigs! On a more structural level, I’m proud of the work we’re doing on assessment policy. Knowing I’ve helped someone feel more in control of their academic path is a big part of what motivates me.
Of all our values, welcoming is the one that sticks with me the most. Whether it’s a smile, a quick check-in, it can make a huge difference. You never know what someone’s going through and being kind is always worth it.
Outside of work, I’m a runner and reader, right now I’m working my way through Mrs Dalloway. I also have a bit of a passion for optimising things. If I find a way to make a system more efficient, I will absolutely stick with it and make it work better!
And a fun fact? Well... I kind of hate fun facts. But here’s one anyway: I’ve never broken a bone. Let’s hope it stays that way!
Ways to get in touch with me...