Ross Clark - Student Communications team
We’re bringing you directly into the world of GCU Student Life with our very own staff profiles.
You’ve watched our videos and read our articles, now it’s your chance to find out more about the team behind student communications at your University!
Next up we have Student Communications and Engagement Assistant; Ross Clark!
What’s your job role?
Student Engagement & Communications Assistant (SHLS/GSBS) / GCU Student Life Actor
Your favourite thing about working at GCU?
It’s a real privilege hearing about the different journeys students have taken throughout their life to end up at GCU! Whether it’s joining straight from school, moving to Scotland from abroad or changing career path at the age of 40, it really shows there’s no specific route to take in life. Everyone has a story to tell and I’m lucky that it’s part of my job to do that!
What did you study at University?
BA (Hons) Sports Journalism at University of the West of Scotland. Pleased to say I’m still in touch with a lot of the guys from the course and will be continuing our Christmas night-out tradition again this year!
Where else have you worked?
I cleaned dishes in a care home before making the big move into the world of retail at ASDA Linwood as a grocery colleague. I spent four years working 2 till 10 every Sunday, where I tirelessly stacked everything from Coco Pops to Coca Cola! Rumour has it that the shelves have never been the same since I left in 2018.
When I’m not working you’ll usually find me…
Exercising! I’m a football referee in my spare time and keeping fit is a great way for me to clear my head. I particularly enjoy a swim on a Friday night before a game on a Saturday… life really isn’t that exciting in your mid-20s!
If I could be an animal, I’d be…
Probably a panda. I’m a big fan of their chilled vibes and how they just sit about and eat food all day – what’s not to like!
An interesting fact about myself…
As well as being a football referee, I’m also a big Scotland fan and love following my country at home and abroad. It’s pretty cool getting to go to countries you would never normally visit, like San Marino and Moldova. The actual football often becomes an afterthought, because quite often the result won’t go our way.
“Often painful but always memorable” is probably how I’d describe supporting Scotland!
Who’s your favourite musician/band to listen to on your work commute?
Courteeners are probably my favourite overall band but I’ve really got into Sam Fender recently. His debut album in particular always gets me in a good mood for the day ahead.
You’ve got a chilled night in – what’s your go-to film and snack choice?
Right, this is tough because overall I’m more of a documentary man. I often find myself trailing through channels for ages and eventually end up watching “Knocked Up” for the 54th time on ITV2, but I’m beginning to get a bit sick of Seth Rogan.
I’m perfectly aware movie buffs will probably slate me for this but “The Hangover” is always an easy watch and gives you a good laugh. On the flip side, one film I really enjoyed recently - that’s also a good bit more serious - was “Queen and Slim”. I’ll not go into too much detail, but you might need your tissues.
Recommendation time - your top Glasgow restaurant and bar?
If you’re a student and into your indie music then Firewater has to be your go-to, especially on a Thursday night. Just make sure you’re home at a sensible time for lectures the next day…
Glasgow is blessed with some absolutely top restaurants. If you’re going with the Firewater recommendation then somewhere like Pizza Punks is a safe bet for a good pizza to line the stomach. If you’re looking for something with a bit higher quality then Café Gandolfi (mix of Scottish Classics/world dishes) or ‘Babs (Greek/Turkish) are both right up there!
This or that
Morning person or night owl?
Night owl, 100%!
Staycation or vacation?
I’ve really enjoyed my staycations over the last year but I miss feeling that wee burst of heat when you get off the plane – vacation for me!
Dining out or cooking in?
I’ve definitely got into cooking a bit more over the last while but I really enjoy the whole experience of restaurants. From the excitement checking out the menu online beforehand to sampling the general ambience of the place, before tucking into a meal – nothing beats it!
Outdoor festival or sweaty indoor gig?
Sweaty indoor gig. I enjoy festivals but it’s not on the same level as a night in the Barrowlands.
Chocolate or crisps?
It has to be chocolate!
Instagram or Twitter?
Another tough one! Twitter is a funnier place to be overall but I like seeing what people are up to, so Instagram…just!
By Rachael McAlonan
Got a SCEBE or GSBS story? Email me at Rachael.McAlonan@gcu.ac.uk or connect with me on social media