Oliver Barsby

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Your time at the University

I can honestly say that my time at the University of Edinburgh was nothing but enjoyable from start to a rather protracted finish. From the first moment I arrived at Pollock Halls I was surrounded by people I soon, and still to this day, call my friends.

Academically, I found the course to be a smooth transition from my days at school and the variety of modules on offer made sure my interest was maintained throughout the four years.

However, while I enjoyed the academic element, I could more often than not be found at the sports centre playing table tennis or involved in some sport or another. This resulted in me representing the University in the British Universities competition and taking up voluntary roles in the Edinburgh University Table Tennis Club. This led to my involvement with Edinburgh University Sports Union. I would truly recommend that any student makes the most of the opportunities available to them outside of the course because the University has so much to offer.

I was elected as Sports Union President enabling me to prolong my time at University for an extra twelve months and this whole experience capped off a fantastic period in my life.

Tell us about your Experiences since leaving the University

I would truly recommend that any student makes the most of the opportunities available to them outside of the course because the University has so much to offer.

Oliver Barsby

The skills I gained through both my academic and voluntary experiences at the University put me in good stead and before long I was employed by Edinburgh Leisure in a sports development role.

Having worked there for two years I was then able to get employment with the Scottish Association of Local Sports Councils, originally in the role of Policy Director before moving up to Chief Operating Officer, working alongside partners such as sportscotland and the Scottish Government.

I’ve been fortunate enough to combine the analytical skills required in my degree with my love of sport and been successful in being employed in this area. Through this job I have picked up significant experience in developing national policy, directing market campaigns, controlling budgets and other financial management experience.

Alumni wisdom

Study hard, but make the most of the other opportunities the University has to offer. Some of my lasting memories and friends from my time at University have come from playing sport.

University isn’t just a time to develop academically but it provides a safe environment where you can explore different interests and develop as a person.