Student Blog: Duncan Calvert.

As part of the SV work experience this summer, I was given the opportunity to shadow Derek Mackay MSP (the Scottish Government’s Finance Secretary) and those who work in his constituency office in Renfrew. As someone who has a keen interest of Scottish politics and politics in general, I relished the chance of getting a glimpse of not only the day-to-day of an MSP but also a Government Minister. Throughout the week, I was able to learn valuable office skills by doing various tasks typical of those done on a regular basis in a politician’s office, such as scanning local press into a database and then compiling statistics, folding and sending letters to constituents and even drafting and publishing press releases on Derek Mackay MSP’s behalf. The definite highlight of the week was a visit to the Scottish Parliament, where I met the Minister’s team in Edinburgh, attended First Minister’s Questions and a statement from Derek Mackay MSP. I was also very lucky to be taken on a tour of the chamber by Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan, who showed me around and imparted on me some knowledge and advice on pursuing a career in politics. On Friday, I joined Derek Mackay MSP for a tour of Paisley Museum which is currently being renovated, and then on to Renfrewshire House where I met the Provost and Renfrewshire Council leader Nicolson before a short ceremony of the raising of the Armed Forces Day flag. Overall, it was a very insightful experience, where I gained a deeper understanding of the great amount of work it takes to be a politician, as well as to be working for one. I can gladly say that this experience has encouraged me further to pursue a career in politics and the week was a very interesting and engaging one.

Duncan Calvert