National student leader? degree not needed

[tiny-tim]

the newly elected president of the uk national union of students (nus) has never been to university

toni pearce gained a place at bath university, but deferred it to be sabbatical student union president of the college where she took her A-levels

from there she became a full-time vice-president of the nus, and then was elected president, defeating (according to oxford student newspaper cherwell), an inanimate carbon rod

(see also http://www.independent.co.uk/studen...p-to-become-president-of-the-nus-8574357.html)

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

Good for her! Guess the university saw some good leadership in her. I suppose most see the position as just an irrelevant stepping stone.

 

[cristo]

Having no experience of, and not being able to relate to, the people she is supposed to be representing probably sets her up well for a successful career in politics.

 

[Evo]

Having no experience of, and not being able to relate to, the people she is supposed to be representing probably sets her up well for a successful career in politics.

 

[LudusRex]

I believe that education is an important aspect of personal and professional development. However, I also believe that one's qualifications do not solely determine their capabilities and potential for success. Toni Pearce's journey to becoming the president of the UK National Union of Students is a testament to this belief. Despite not having a degree, she has shown determination, leadership, and a strong understanding of the student body's needs, which are essential qualities for a national student leader.

Moreover, the fact that she deferred her place at university to serve as a sabbatical student union president and then went on to become a full-time vice-president of the nus, speaks volumes about her commitment and dedication to the student community. This experience has likely provided her with valuable insights and skills that cannot be obtained solely through academic qualifications.

It is also worth noting that Ms. Pearce's opponent in the election was described as an "inanimate carbon rod," which suggests that she was the more qualified and capable candidate in the eyes of the student body. This further highlights the fact that a degree is not the only measure of a person's abilities and potential.

In conclusion, while a degree may provide one with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, it is not the sole determining factor for success. Toni Pearce's story is a reminder that determination, leadership, and a deep understanding of the student community are essential qualities for a national student leader, and these can be acquired through various experiences and opportunities, not just through a degree.