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Seven questions with Johnathan Jones

2 March 2018

This week, meet Johnathan Jones, a postgraduate researcher in the Institute of Education's Department of Culture, Communication and Media.

Johnathan Jones Johnathan is also Faculty Rep for the Institute of Education (Postgraduate Research) and chats with us about the importance of the Students' Union UCL Leadership Elections.

1. What does your role involve?

I do a lot of liaising between students and administration, a good chunk of pushing for better facilities (a consequence of the merger between the Institute of Education and UCL), and a mash of event planning, responding to various student needs, and of course everyone's favourite… meetings!

2. Have you made any changes for students this year?

Yes! As a rep, very little is done through just one person, so there are a lot of people to thank, but during my watch, we have implemented a new forum for Reps to contact their constituents (previously there was no direct way of doing so), extended the hours that researchers have access to kitchen facilities-going from a 5pm close to 10pm, plus weekends and holidays, introduced themed events such as Halloween and Christmas parties, and are currently pushing hard for lockers and more study spaces for researchers.

3. What inspired you to run for a position?

One of the best ways to get more out of a degree is to get involved. I wanted to meet new people, learn about the school, and tackle initiatives that could make the cohort demonstrably better. I had also been in leadership roles in the past, so it was a natural fit.

4. Why do you think the Students' Union UCL Leadership Election matters?

From running for election to voting, it is crucial to get involved as it directly impacts your studies and university experience. If something is important to you, I highly recommend running to make an impact. If you think someone would do a better job at it, VOTE FOR THEM!

5. What's your favourite thing about studying at UCL?

Easy: the people. I have exemplary supervisors, a strong cohort where I've been able to make good friends (sometimes thanks to the role), and regular access to prominent academics and genuine global leaders throughout the UCL hierarchy (often thanks to this role). How cool is that?

6. If you had a magic wand, what would you change?

We have nearly 800 postgraduate research students at the UCL IOE and we have four study rooms. My magic wand would include a study room on each floor with assigned seating for researchers in need of a regular space (we do not have our own desks!). If I had two magic wands, I'd include a lounge to accompany each study space. You know what? I'd be happy if the magic stopped at just one lounge!

7. How will you remember your time at UCL when you leave?

Tough question as I feel I'm just getting started. Probably a lot of hard work and hopefully a great deal of payoff.