So tell me what you want: The Tab meets Katie Matthews

Let’s get down to the important stuff first. In your manifesto you claim “major entertainment” would be booked for a future “QU Ball”.  In an ideal world what would this consist of?

Spice Girls, Vengaboys, S Club 7- a proper 90’s kid reunion

Spice Girls? You’re obviously into Girl Power; do you think boys could be intimidated by you as a candidate?

I wouldn’t say it’s intimidating, I think it encourages a greater range of voters to come out- over 50% of students at Queen’s are girls yet I’m the first girl running for president in ten years. If I win it could inspire other girls to come forward and consider running in the future!

Would you say it’s difficult for candidates to appeal to people outside their normal social group?

I’m a social butterfly; I love meeting new people and learn something new from everyone. That’s why going out, getting seen by people is so important- it’s the only way to draw in new F.A.C.Es (ding dong pun alert!)

In a recent interview with the Tab, Cap’n Ciaran Gallagher described you as ‘bubbly’. The word “friendly” often appears alongside your name. Tell us, have you ever done anything remotely bad?

Well I stole sweets from Woolworths when I was about 7.  In general I treat people how I like to be treated myself…just couldn’t resist those sweetie shrimp though.

 How would you describe your opponents in one word?

Ciaran is a lovely young man, but it is hard to describe him in one word. Probably eclectic!

And Martin Lilly? [Pause] …It would be unfair for me to describe Martin in one word because I don’t know him on a personal level like Ciaran.

You are an Elms RA, President of SAFE and involved in so many other activities. Don’t think that you have too much on already to be SU President?

This week with all the campaigning during the election period perhaps my studies have been pushed back but what’s one week of study when I could be President for a year helping our student union and community? Time management is crucial.

Did the £17000 have an influence on you running for President?

It isn’t about the money; it’s about helping the students. This is a role of representation and I want to make a positive difference which is why I want this so much.

Yeah, yeah…BUT what would you choose to spend it on if you had your way?

That’s a tough question but obviously charity would be given a large amount. I like to support charities with children from underprivileged backgrounds and those encouraging female education. And have a massive party of course!

One of your slogans is “We value your voice”. Would you rather have no voice or no hands?

No hands, I think everyone always needs a voice. Plus I could just get a pair of robot hands.

How would you encourage more people to run for student office next year if you were elected President?

I have this concept of ‘Spotlight on the Sabbaticals’. By publicising what we do via email or on the website more people will become interested in the union and want to get involved. To become president would be a dream and it would be a real pleasure to do it.

Official Matthews’s stance on The Tab?

The Tab is…creative, a more approachable way of getting the student voice across. Balance between proper journalism and…fun.

Voting is open until Thursday at 7pm, so make sure your vote counts! Bring on the Ball, Miss Matthews.