Environmental Officer: Martin Williams

I'll save the trees, children, whales, and glaciers, one MCR at a time.

President: Alistair Hanson

Tea

I am heartily of the view that the fair trade Earl Grey tea tastes appalling. I would replace this with better tasting tea, even if this means that it would not be fair trade.

Mugs

In order to drink this better tasting tea, there should be better provision of mugs. The current mug policy would be reversed and an adequate stock of mugs would be provided.

Booze

The MCR currently has a surplus, some of which I would like to have spent on more alcohol.

Cammsy

I would hope to find a patron for the MCR. The first person that I would ask to become patron would be Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.

President: Erin Finger

My name is Erin Finger, and I am running for MCR President. I am from Louisville, Kentucky, USA and I am studying for an MPhil in Politics. Though I am new to Oxford as of last September, my experiences as a cadet at the US Air Force Academy have given me leadership experience and organizational skills essential for the job. I am not afraid of working hard on the behalf of the MCR and putting the time in to improve this already much-loved community. In the short term, this means bringing back mugs for coffee and tea and getting a new printer, among other things. Since the MCR is more than just a set of rooms in college, I would like to get the MCR involve d in the Oxford community as a whole, giving back through community service. I am running for president because I genuinely love being a student at Exeter College and the community that our MCR provides, and can bring efficiency and organization that will make the running and representation of the MCR even better.

President: Layla Hamadi Merricks

I'm Layla and I am studying Medical Anthropology at Exeter. I want to run for president because having done an undergraduate course at another University, I think that the MCR contributes hugely to the graduate experience at Oxford - it made all the freshers I am aware of feel welcomed right from the start, which you don't get in many other places. So I want to be part of something that has such a big impact on student life. I am here on a two year MPhil, and hoping to stay for a DPhil.

The following are a few of my proposals: Though I live out, I want to represent the MCR on college housing, a few of my friends live in Exeter House and Woodstock, and I am aware it is not perfect. I want to be able to take queries to the college asap so that problems don't hang around getting worse.The college kitchen runs at a loss every year, but some people aren't happy with it because of the lack of healthier options. I want to speak to the kitchens about making the salad bar available in the evening as well. On the point of welfare I would like to propose getting a new stereo (one where the radio works), re-introducing a smaller number of mugs (possibly with a view to getting a table top dishwasher, I have priced a few up but I need to look into piping.) Also I think we should have a small mirror in the MCR so that the queues for the one toilet before formal dinners is not so huge, and a new printer for the computer room due to the number of difficulties people are having recently.If I am elected, as an enthusiastic and approachable member of the community, I will represent the best interests of the MCR and continue the tradition for good relations between college and the graduate student body.

President: Sara Adams

Hi, I'm Sara, and I'm standing for MCR president. Here are the top threereasons I think I'd make a good MCR president:

1. I know my way around.
   As you may know, I've been your IT officer for the last two years. I've also done some work for college, both for the college website, and the Development office. This means I know who to talk to about which issues. I think this is actually quite important, because if you want to get things done, it's best to know who will be most accessible for it. It also means that I've got an idea on how the MCR Exec works best, so we can all give you our best.
2. I understand the importance of this office.
   The president has to represent the MCR, and I think it is very important it is done well. This includes being accessible to all MCR members and helping out with problems within the MCR if there is need. It is important not to forget, though, that the MCR should also be strongly represented in all college meetings. We do have an influence in college politics, but this influence stands or falls with how we interact with college.
3. I get things done.
   Those of you who know me, and have worked with me will be able to confirm that I am an organised person. I am aware of my responsibilities, and I get things done that need doing. I am aware of the time commitment this office entails, and I am more than willing to take that on. If you elect me as president, I promise you to give you my best, just as you deserve.

Those are the three top reasons I think I'd make a good MCR president. But in case you're wondering what my top reason for wanting to be your president is, I feel Exeter is a fantastic college, with one of the friendliest MCRs in Oxford. I want to give back a bit of what college gives me, and it would be an honour to do this by helping you get the best of college you can.

Social Secretary: Katy Barrett

From flower garlands to christmas hats, ball dresses to white shorts, you have seen me in all manner of outfits this year, all of which I hope, when combined with a reasonable quantity of alcohol, have helped to liven up your social lives. Voting for me as Social Sec, will allow this state of beauty to continue. I have really loved all the fun so far. Anything you didn't enjoy was, in any case, purely Brian's idea so you cannot blame me or Richard! If that isn't enough for you, how do exchange dinners with Christchurch and Magdalen, already agreed for Trinity sound? ...

Katy
Your ever humourous social sec - I'm party-tastic!

Social Secretary: Therese Feiler

Hello you beautiful MCR people! Unfortunately I cannot attend the hustings this afternoon because I am stuck in Cambridge after a night of sin and debauchery. Nevertheless I'd love to be your new social secretary in joint with the wonderful Katy and Richard. I trust that you do not vote for RON and choose your favourite mistletoe fairy instead.

Greetings from the other place,
Therese

Social Secretary: Richard Chapman

Hello Exeter MCR,

My name's Richard and I've been one third of our trusty social secretariat since Michaelmas 07, helping to bring you the delights that were: Beachtastic Bonanza Bop, EXXXmas Bop, exchanges with Templeton and Green colleges, trip to see The Golden Compass and the like.

This term we've got an even better term card lined up: following on from our Wine and Cheese evening and Jazz and Cocktails, get your vocal chords (or your earplugs) ready for Karaoke, more exchange dinners this time with St Cross and St Catz, wine tasting, movie nights, poetry night, trip to London to see King Tut exhibition, and a trip to Cambridge... Oh, and we're going to Christchurch and Magdalen in Trinity.

So please vote myself back in and I'll promise to keep this MCR's social calendar positively electrifying.

Cheers,
Richard

Treasurer: Christo Fogelberg

Hello, my name is Christo Fogelberg and I'm running for Treasurer in 2008-9. This won't be very exciting to read, but since it’s for the Treasurer I don't think it should be: "Elect me, I'm boring and dependable!"

So why me? Lots of reasons. I'm not an accountant or an economist, but I have invested my own money for nearly a decade now and know enough accounting that doing that part of the job won't be a problem for me. While an undergraduate in New Zealand I've also been on the exec of some student clubs. This means I know how important it is not to faff around with things that need to be done, whether it's sorting out cheques for people, helping organise events or working with people like the accountant. I also know how important it is to systematise things. George has done a lot of good stuff in this area, and I hope to do some more.

What I plan on doing is the other really important bit. As well as just doing the job, there are two things here. The first is helping the MCR run more smoothly. An example of this is changing things so that the social secretaries don't have to fund everything out of their own pocket and then wait to get paid back. That hobbles their activity, which affects everyone, and is also just unfair on them. I plan to carry on with programs like the collective gym membership, and although it depends on usage, I expect that we will be able to negotiate this down.

I also hope to take a very active role in the college committees that are relevant to the Treasurer's role. This might sound unimportant, but I don't think it is. I'm concerned that the college doesn't always do things in the most sensible or economic way. And that’s OK, it’s not a for-profit business and it wouldn’t be right if it was. But we aren’t there to soak up unnecessary waste by paying more for our accommodation or settling for less support from the college.

Making a real difference here is a very long term thing, probably multi-year. Whatever it is, I’ll stick around, either as Treasurer or another position. I talked with a friend who was on the MCR of another college for three years, and changes do happen, but slowly. I also want to stress that as an MCR the right way to do this is professionally and maturely, and I will do it in that way. Sounding strident and righteous will feel good, but we would just be ignored. So the first step is to actually confirm that there is something that can and should be fixed.

Regardless though, one thing I will always do is argue our case strongly. As the graduate students of Exeter College we are a crucial part of the college’s culture, its history and its future. I'll make sure that this is not forgotten.

There, wasn't that boring?

Vice-President: Daragh McDowell

In my view the primary role of the MCR Vice President is as a communicator. It’s the VP’s job to inform members of the MCR about issues that affect them, as well as keeping them up to date on what the Executive Committee is doing. Additionally the VP must be able to help effectively communicate the goals and objectives of the MCR to the College.

For over a year I have acted as the Careers Officer of the College, a role that has required me to maintain a large number of business contacts, form and execute a strategy for the development and recruitment of internships, and keep in contact with Exeter students about what the Office has to offer them. Over this time I have familiarised myself with the various offices of the College and formed good working relationships with the people who run them and know who to go to when something needs to be done. Additionally I have been required to keep detailed records and build an institutional memory for the Careers Office. All of these are skills I believe will help me to be an effective Vice President for this MCR if you elect me.

All this and I’ll finally have an excuse for sitting on that couch all day…

Vice-President: Robert Bauer

I am Robert Bauer,second year Mathematics DPhil-student,running for the Vice-President. Besides I will be a loyal Vice-President, I am suggesting the following:

1. There should be a solution for the mug problem ,there should be 10 numbered guest mugs, containing the sign of Exeter College and a number. The responsibility lies in the hands of the MCR-members inviting guests.
2. If there are any MCR-mugs for MCR members , the mugs should be numbered according the lockers list. Of course private mugs are allowed,if these mugs are stored privately.
3. The taps in the kitchen should be fixed.
4. There should be a new kettle.
5. There should be a new lamp in the study room.
6. There should be a subscription of the Times supplement of higher education, a journal which affects us.
7. There should be a hanging wooden newspaper or magazine box on the wall.
8. There should be some wooden newspaper sticks.
9. There might be a light dishwasher for mugs if the plumbing is available.

Vice-President: Saikat "Ron" Nandi

Welfare Officer: Hannah Perrin

Hello to all my fellow cake and safe-sex lovers! I would like to represent you all as welfare officer so that I can tend to all your concerns and make sure that you all feel as warm and loved as can be.

My brother is fond of telling me…‘Hannah, food is not love’ but I disagree. I believe that ‘CAKE IS LOVE,’ and I plan to fill you all with enough tea and cake every Friday afternoon to count for a million hugs! Only the most sumptuous and divinely delectable morsels of cakey goodness will be provided, along with tea brewed to old-fashioned British perfection. Don’t worry, the fruitier among you will be supplied with all the vitamins you could possibly need. I will also make sure the kitchen is well stocked for all tea/coffee/hot chocolate related emergencies.

I am dedicated to representing you all on any issue and to ensuring that our wonderful MCR is free from discrimination on any grounds. I have experience working in welfare committees, representing my peers in a variety of situations, and I have also spent some time working for nightline. I am also happy to go on any courses that will enhance my welfare skills so that I can help you in as many ways as possible.

I believe that every single member of Exeter College MCR has the inherent right to welfare style love, and to be filled with tea and cake! I will not rest until this is done.

Michael Gousgounis

Running for Sports Rep

MCR's athletic capital has remained untapped quite a while, so I am keen to put it to some good, calorie-burning use through tournaments of all sorts (ping pong, volleyball, football, table-football, darts, backgammon - yes it's a sport, and any other physical activity you might fancy). Ideas are welcome. They sky (i.e. MCR's budget) is the limit.

Patrick Wadden

Running for Exeter House President

Dear all,

I would like to take this opportunity to state my case as a candidate in the forthcoming election to the position of Exeter House President. Before that, however, I would like to thank the outgoing President, Julian de Hoog, for the fantastic job he has done during his tenure. In all aspects of his position he has been extremely helpful and professional. It will be a tough act to follow.

If I do become Exeter House President, I would aim to maintain the standards Julian has set in these aspects of the job. It is extremely important that the students who arrive in Exeter House, the majority of whom are international students without other connections in the city, have an immediate reference point within the accommodation, somebody approachable who is willing to help in whatever way possible. I feel that as a sociable, amicable person, I would be well able to fulfil such a role.

It is also important that the House President be willing and able to represent the wishes of the students living in the house to the college authorities when necessary during the year. This aspect of the job is likely to be even more important next year when college begins work on the new accommodation which is to be built at the Exeter House site. It will take a person willing and able to work with, and when necessary against, the authorities to ensure that Exeter House and its residents are not forgotten. The house itself is not in the best condition and should not be allowed to deteriorate while the new housing is under construction if this is going to be to the detriment of those living there. Again I feel that I am the right person to do this.

Finally, I personally feel that Exeter House is an underused commodity of the M.C.R. While its primary purpose is to provide a place for residents to live and study, and this must take precedence over all and any other activities, there is definitely scope for the house to be used more in the MCR’s social activities. The odd party, barbeque etc. would not affect the studious atmosphere too much. This would also help in the creation of a stronger sense of community within the house.

With this I sign off. If you feel these are the qualities you want from an Exeter House President, as I do, then I would appreciate your vote.

Many thanks in advance,

Patrick Wadden.

Radha Desai

Running for Exeter House President

Exeter House has in every sense proved to be a home away from home. No other student accommodation I've lived in has had this large a number of friendly neighbors and interesting conversations. As house president I want to help maintain and nurture this environment and contribute towards improving the house in a direction that the residents suggest. I would like to create an environment where every house resident feels comfortable enough to ask for what he or she wants for their home. I will make every effort at being as available and approachable as possible.

If elected, I want to focus on the following matters:

1. Improving security. Many residents have felt the need for a better security system at the house. I feel the house should have an electronic access system at the fence like most graduate housing has. This will be especially important in the summer for the ground floor residents who would like to keep their windows open. I understand that this has been brought to the attention of the college before, but in light of recent events, I feel this issue must be taken up once more.
2. Working out a heating system pattern that allows for modulation on a weekly basis. I want to urge residents to be sensible about heating their rooms, such that the overall heating costs are minimized and we can still have heating on a few days in May and June when it gets suddenly rainy and cold.
3. A good First Aid / Basic medicine cabinet for the House. I have noticed that many a times people fall ill or cut themselves and require an ibuprofen or cough medicine and are unable to procure any off hand. I want to have a basic First aid kit with some medicines which will be stocked up with pre expiry medicines and band aids.
4. I would like to create an Exeter on Iffley community. We tend to forget that a large number of Exonians live across the road from us in Stapeldon House. In the spirit of MCR-JCR cohesion, I would like to invite the Stalpeldonians for a few of the social events at Exeter House.

I want to continue the initiatives taken up by Julian and other house presidents, such as utilizing some of the excess money of the MCR towards House improvements and social engagements. I want to add a darting pyramid along with the ping pong pyramid, once we have the dart board. I would like to have a social calendar for Exeter House which would include

1. Marathon Movie nights
2. Game Night
3. Pot luck
4. The Big Bad Exeter House Party
5. The Ping pong pyramid
6. Darting champions
7. Summer Barbeque + Frisbee contest
8. The Exeter House Talent Contest
9. Exeter House Iron Chef
10. New Year's Eve

............ Suggestions Welcome!

In conclusion, as house president, I will try my best to provide a non judgmental, easy ear for all residents of the house and promise to make the house a fun place to live in.

Exeter House President: Hannah Perrin

Hello MCR! It's your cake baking, tea brewing, condom dealing Welfare Officer requesting your vote to become Exeter House President. Having lived in Exeter House this year, my main priorities will be: lots of welcome parties, dinners and bbqs for the freshers, shielding the newbies eyes from builders bums, and their ears from pneumatic drills ensuring safety and security spreading love and friendship throughout the world. Vote Perrin!

Freshers' Representative: Hannah Graff

Social Secretary: Andrew van Biljon

Social Secretary: Hannah Graff

In general, I am friendly, well organized, tend to get things done when they need to be done, and have enjoyed many of our social activities this past year and would like to see them continue!

Sports Representative: Kate Kingsbury