Social Sciences student interviews Scotland’s First Minister for dissertation 

A GCU student has had the opportunity to interview a high profile Scottish politician as part of her dissertation – Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

Fourth year Social Sciences student Catherine Mackie started recruiting female politicians for her dissertation in January, which involves examining the impact of external women in political organisations. 

Unexpectedly, one of Nicola Sturgeon’s staff got in touch with Catherine in March and offered the chance to interview her the following day.

Catherine was delighted to have been given the chance to include Nicola Sturgeon in her dissertation research. She said “I couldn't believe it! I felt gobsmacked when I received the email as I never expected a reply, let alone a reply from one of her staff saying that Nicola Sturgeon was happy to be interviewed.

It was incredible (and a bit nerve-wracking!) to be able to interview her for my dissertation, and I still feel very lucky and honoured that she was willing to be interviewed for my dissertation.”

She added: “I asked Nicola a variety of questions as part of the interview. For example, I asked her about whether she thinks the work of external women into politics organisations such as Elect Her, 50:50 Parliament and Women for Independence could increase the number of women elected to Scottish Local Councils, what barriers (if any) she had faced during her time in politics, and about her experiences of going through the SNP's candidate selection process. “

Catherine believes that an opportunity like this has provided her with some great research for her dissertation, despite the initial nerves of interviewing the First Minister. She said: “It will benefit me in both aspects. In terms of my coursework, the insights Nicola Sturgeon shared were fantastic and invaluable for my final dissertation. She shared some unique experiences and some interesting viewpoints which will be useful for the findings.

The experience also boosted my confidence as I was a bit nervous at the thought of interviewing the First Minister for my dissertation! Nicola Sturgeon was lovely and very approachable throughout the interview, so after I got over my initial nerves when asking the first couple of questions, I soon relaxed and felt calmer interviewing her. Being able to interview Nicola Sturgeon has given me great experience!”

By Rachael McAlonan

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