Hi, I'm Matt and I'm your Union President for 2025/26!

I've been at Surrey since 2019, first doing an undergraduate degree in Politics, then a masters in Sustainable Development. Since joining Surrey I've always been highly involved in the Students' Union, from being a course rep in my undergrad and masters, a Part Time Officer in the Community Zone, to being the treasurer and then president of the Running Club, and last year I was the Vice President Community of the SU!

How would you describe your role in one sentence?

I'm involved in all parts of the SU and am often the only student voice in the room at University meetings, so it's my role to make sure students' voices are heard everywhere!

How did you first get involved with the Students’ Union?

I was a part time officer for the Community Zone in 2021, which inspired me to run to be VP Community last year! I also worked at Rubix and Manor Park Social which got me more involved with how they were both run.

What is your favourite memory from your involvement in the Students’ Union so far?

My highlight so far was the big quiz night we did at the last freshers week. I'd never seen such a big turnout for a pub quiz and the atmosphere was great! I'm not sure the audience was expecting some of the silly challenges we had set for them too.

Why did you choose to run for election as a Sabbatical Officer?

While I had been VP Community, I often found myself wanting to get involved in more projects than just what Community Zone covers. Issues and projects around the sports park, student accommodation, and getting the Union into more spaces, which all needed a more central approach. Plus I'm still very passionate about representing all of you and ensuring you get the best experience at Surrey!

Which part of your manifesto are you most excited to get started on?

Introducing the Union coffee mornings is my highlight; I want the SU to be far more mobile and present across campus instead of us being stuck to our building and bars. We'll be introducing this from semester one so keep your eye out for it!

What one tip would you give a new student joining Surrey in Freshers this year?

Get involved with everything! Just say yes to everything you can and do as much as you can, not everything will stick but this is your time to try new things, be it a sports club or a new hobby. Plus it's a great way to find like-minded friends. I've made friends for life from some of the activities I did at university!

I hope you have a wonderful time at Surrey, and I'll be there to welcome as many of you in as possible over the moving in weekend with our wonderful Freshers Angels. If you see me around do please say hi or you are welcome to in touch with me or my team with any ideas or issues! Have a read of my role and manifesto if you want to find out more of what I'll be doing over the next year.