Name: Samantha Hay
Course: Forensic Sciences
Year: 2nd Year
What made you choose to join the AberFly Society?
I decided to join the society after taking one of their pole taster sessions during freshers and absolutely loving it.
What initially drew you to pole, and how has it impacted your physical and mental well-being?
I was initially drawn to pole as something to do for a bit of fun and to get some exercise in while at uni. Since starting pole it has highly improved my self confidence and mental wellbeing as with the supportive nature of the other people in the classes I have felt safe to grow and learn new things through pole. It has also strongly helped my physical wellbeing as it has helped my greatly grow my upper body and core strength and has helped me lose weight in a way that feels like fun.
How does pole contribute to your self-confidence, body positivity and overall sense of empowerment?
Starting pole has grown my self-confidence immensely as when I first started I didn’t feel comfortable in anything that went above the knee or even anything that showed too much chest but since starting pole I have felt a lot more comfortable wearing more revealing and form-fitting clothing and have started feeling a lot more comfortable in my own body.
Can you share a memorable experience of breaking through a personal limitation or fear while practicing pole? How did you approach it and what did you learn from that experience?
One of my biggest limitations while practicing pole was learning to do a headstand. When I first started I could only attempt it with my instructor next to me to spot me the entire time and I couldn’t even get my legs fully up. But now after months of practice and lots of encouragement from my instructor and the other lovely people at the society I can now do a headstand completely unassisted and can even do some shapes while in it. While learning to do this I learned that sometimes I can do it on my own and I’m just not trusting myself enough to do it and sometimes all you need is a little encouragement and practice to break down those mental barriers.
What's your favourite board game or video game, and what makes it so enjoyable for you?
One of my all time favourite video games is Spiritfarer. I love this game as it’s a very peaceful and relaxing game with some absolutely beautiful story elements that keep you attached to the various characters and keep you invested in helping their souls cross over to the afterlife. I also absolutely adore its watercoloresque art style it’s just a really beautiful game to play.
If you could have any animal as a pet, regardless of practicality or legality, what would you choose and why?
I am absolutely having a ring tailed lemur as a pet. They have been one of my favourite animals since I was a child and every time I go to the zoo I always love walking through their enclosure. Also I would call him King Julian for obvious reasons. Either that or a boa constrictor called Jeff.
What's the most adventurous thing you've ever done or would like to do in the future?
In the summer I regularly going wild rock climbing down the coast of scotland in just my trainers and beach clothes. I also regularly go wild water swimming in Kintyre during the summer for fun. :)
