NOW that the elections are all wrapped up, many young people are focusing on much awaited A-level results. It may sound dramatic juxtaposing these two things but I find they are intrinsically linked, given that both relate to detached institutions making executive decisions on issues that determine the course of people’s lives.

At eighteen I agonised over whether to pursue a career in theatre or politics. After hearing my da declare that politics was “Hollywood for ugly people”, I decided it would suit me down to the ground and so I embarked upon a degree in government and criminology.

I was on a mission to learn about the inner workings of the system that reflects who we are as a society and change the world. After all, I was one of the lucky ones who could do this, given that the year I applied for university was to be the last when applicants from ‘underprivileged’ backgrounds could avail of a degree without hefty tuition fees.

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My enthusiasm waned with each passing day as I came to the conclusion that manifestos are as fanciful as........

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