Ever since he can remember, Andrew has been fascinated with technology. From a young age, he gravitated towards anything involving computers - especially video games.
Despite his enthusiasm, university wasn’t always part of Andrew’s plan. But in his final year of college, Andrew began to see higher education as the best route to gain deeper experience in computing.
Whilst Andrew was excited to start at Bournemouth University, his first year didn’t come without its challenges. He faced some difficulties with his course and was encouraged by lecturers to speak with his Student Rep. By his second year, Andrew decided to take on the role himself to help improve the experience for others.
“Becoming a Student Rep was my first involvement with SUBU and helped me a lot with building professional relationships with staff. I’ve always been passionate when I believe in something, but before university I would normally keep my opinions to myself.
“Through my role as a Student Rep, it felt powerful to have the responsibility to change something that I think isn’t right and see other students agree with me.”
That same year, Andrew founded SUBU’s Gaming Society to bring together students who shared his love of video games. What started as a small idea quickly grew, and by his final year, the society boasted over 100 active members.
Andrew has served as President of the Gaming Society for two years, and under his leadership, the club was shortlisted for Best New Club or Society at the 2024 SUBU Awards.
“If I’m going to do something, I want to do it well and to the best of my ability. It’s been great to see the society take off and be part of creating this space for other students who share the same interests.”
In his third year, Andrew ran for and was elected as a Part-Time Officer. Although he was in two minds of whether to apply for the role, his decision come from his experience as a Student Rep and his desire to support others.
“It was my final year, and I was already planning to run for two other roles and I wasn’t sure I’d have the time. But I’d already worked with Additional Learning Support due to my own personal experiences, and I thought why not go for it?
“I wanted to do everything I could to support students and raise awareness, especially for hidden disabilities. Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there. Someone might need additional help, and if there’s no awareness for hidden disabilities, they can often get left behind.”
Through his role as Disabilities, Accessibility & Neuro-Diverse Officer, Andrew had the opportunity to be involved in real change and advocacy work across campus.
One of the most memorable moments for Andrew was attending his first meeting for Disability History Month.
“It was the first time I’d ever been in what felt like a ‘proper’ meeting. I remember it being in a big room with lots of people, I didn’t know how it all worked at first. It took some time to learn how to follow up and contribute in a meaningful way, but it’s been one of the most valuable skills I’ve picked up.”
Andrew was instrumental in launching important initiatives through the Disabilities, Accessibility & Neuro-Diverse Network. He helped organise events for Disability History Month, supported the implementation of the Sunflower Lanyard Scheme for students with hidden disabilities, and even facilitated a visit to Google’s Accessibility Lab in London.
In addition to his Part-Time Officer and society roles, Andrew joined the Nerve Radio Committee in his third year as Head of Website – despite having no previous experience in student media.
At first, it was a steep learning curve, especially with Andrew having no specific knowledge of how radio worked. To bridge the gap, Andrew started his own show so that he could learn on the job.
He had a rough idea for a show, and with encouragement from the Station Manager, he stepped out of his comfort zone and went for it.
“My first show was terrifying – I was so nervous! When I was younger, I did some gaming YouTube videos, and I liked that because no one was really listening. But this felt different because I knew people were hearing me. After a couple of shows, I got into it and it has really helped to build my confidence.”
In February 2025, Andrew worked with the Nerve Radio Committee to host a takeover in Dylan’s Kitchen and Bar on campus. The performance was broadcast live as part of Nerve Radio’s week on FM, and Andrew was responsible for ensuring the logistics of the outside broadcast.
“It was the most stressful, but best night of my life. So much was relying on me to get everything broadcasting on FM, but I did it! That’s something I am so proud of.”
He also had the opportunity to attend the Student Radio Conference (SRA), where he was able to speak to industry professionals. The event helped him discover pathways that he didn’t even know existed, including software development roles within the radio industry.
As a result of his incredible commitment to creating a positive experience through the Students’ Union, Andrew was awarded Star of the Year at this year’s SUBU Awards.
Realising that he wasn’t quite ready to leave university behind and wants to continue building on the foundations he’s created through SUBU, Andrew will be staying at BU to study for a Master’s degree next year. Being part of SUBU’s Executive Committee through his various roles has also changed his entire perspective on the work of the Students’ Union.
“I didn’t realise how much work goes on behind the scenes. I never really connected with the typical student lifestyle of going out all the time.
“I feel like I have gained more relevant experience for my future through SUBU. As a whole, getting involved has helped me find my place and grown my own confidence.”
You can also find the full 2024/25 Impact Report here.