HCAU: Hi Iona! We want to know all about your university experiences, some of your likes and dislikes, and just generally more about you as a person! How are you feeling?
I: Hi, I am doing really well as I’ve settled back into life in Aberdeen after staying back with my parents for eight (long) months, so I am relishing the independence. My post-grad started quite a few weeks ago now, so I’m very busy and feel slightly cheated at everyone showing up to freshers now, while I’ve been working hard!
HCAU: I’m sure with the uni starting up properly again, you won’t be the only one working hard. So let’s jump right in and get started! What made you want to join HCAU?
I: Well, I actually joined the society four years ago as a second-year undergrad, and immediately fell in love with the society. At the time, Holly was President and the rest of the society’s members were so welcoming and compassionate. I loved the cheesy room of UG just as much as me that I immediately knew I was going to love HerCampus.
Four years later I’m still here, probably annoying everyone, and loving every second of it!
HCAU: What about being our Secretary and PR Lead? What made you decide to go for this role? Any exciting plans up your sleeve?
I: I’ve been the society’s secretary for 3 years now and I love it, but I felt like I needed a new challenge, so I decided to go for PR as well. I’m really excited to invigorate our different social media channels, to make sure we showcase how amazing we are! I’m thinking event recaps, writing tips, article shout outs, the possibilities are endless ahahah
HCAU: We can’t wait! We hope you’ve been enjoying your summer, have you been up to anything interesting?
I: Nothing too interesting, but I did get a new job which was as nerve-wracking as it was fun. Did I start to resent the 12-hour shifts? Maybe. Did I have a laugh with my colleagues every shift which made the achy legs slightly less terrible? Absolutely.
One good thing out of summer was the fact that I was able to improve my crochet skills because I absolutely love crocheting, but often felt like I wasn’t good enough to make anything of worth. But soon I managed to make some tops and cardigans which I love to wear!
HCAU: All good things must come to an end, and the end of summer starts with going back to university. Any advice for newcomers coming to Aberdeen University?
I: Don’t stress about the little things and embrace when things go wrong! Things will go wrong, especially in your first year and while we are still dealing with the tail end of the pandemic, but I would urge anyone not to panic. You won’t be the only one who feels like they don’t have a clue lmao so just chill, don’t sweat the small stuff and enjoy yourself (safely) xx
HCAU: We’ve got a few quick-fire questions for you; we hope you are ready!
Dinner OR Drinks?
Drinks – 2 for 1 cocktails are too good to refuse
Favourite Movie?
Coraline, Coraline, Coraline (and Sweeney Todd: The demon barber of Fleet street)
Main meal OR Dessert?
Dessert, I have such a sweet tooth!
Favourite Aberdeen night out?
I LOVE Paramount – have you tasted a Charlie Sheen?! – so any night out that includes even a quick 20-minute round is definitely my favourite
Check out our socials to see more of Iona in action!