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Five hats, one year, one campus: My diverse work experience at the University of Sussex
Posted on behalf of: Similoluwa Adefioye
Last updated: Thursday, 3 October 2024
It all started with the fear of the unknown and many ‘what-ifs?’ that I tried in vain to wave out of my mind. As an international student from a minority group, I dreaded the thought of not having a source of income, especially because I had to resign from my job back home. On the other hand, I was determined to live to the fullest and hold back none of my potential during my studies at Sussex.
I wanted to look back at my time at Sussex and feel no regrets about what I did, or did not do as a student. However, nothing prepared me for the diverse roles I took up within the University. If anything, those five roles I combined with a one off-campus job, voluntary activities, commuting from London to Falmer, and my academics were the catalyst I needed to step out of my comfort zone. While I was involved in different activities at the University, including organising, facilitating, and hosting events and workshops, I officially wore five different hats that also paid my bills within the one year I spent at Sussex.
Looking back at my growth from a jobless international minority student to a student who earned a living while giving back to the University and sharpening my skills, I am convinced there is a Sussex student out there who needs to read this. These are the five hats I wore in one year - hats that may suit your head too:
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Student Caller: As a Student Caller, I was tasked with raising funds for the Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) and the Hardship Fund from Sussex alumni. This role involved calling Sussex alumni across different countries and using storytelling to gently persuade them to donate funds. I had to develop strong communication and persuasion skills to connect with alumni, explain the importance of the funds, and encourage donations. The job taught me the value of perseverance and the impact of effective communication in fundraising. It also taught me selflessness and humanity. While enjoyable, if lengthy phone calls aren’t your thing, this role might not be for you.
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International Ambassador: In my role as an International Ambassador, I represented the University of Sussex to prospective international students. I shared my experiences and provided insights into university life. This job allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and enhanced my cross-cultural communication skills. It was gratifying to help others feel more comfortable and welcome at Sussex.
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UK Recruitment Postgraduate Student Ambassador: As a UK Recruitment Postgraduate Student Ambassador, I worked on recruiting postgraduate students from within and outside the UK. This role involved attending online and physical recruitment events, participating in webinars, creating social media content, and interacting with prospective students. It required a deep understanding of the University's offerings and the ability to communicate their value effectively. This job improved my public speaking abilities and gave me a sense of fulfilment in helping students make informed decisions about their education.
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Student Connector - Digital Poverty Inclusion Policy for Business School: In this position, I worked on developing and implementing a Digital Poverty Inclusion Policy for the Business School to improve assessment accessibility. This role required a combination of research, policy development, and advocacy. I collaborated with staff members and other Student Connectors on this project to identify challenges and propose solutions to ensure equitable access to digital resources. This job enhanced my research, report-writing skills, and problem-solving abilities and deepened my understanding of digital inclusion issues.
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Student Connector - Blogger: As a Student Blogger, I had the opportunity to share my experiences and insights through writing. This role allowed me to express myself creatively and connect with a broader audience. I wrote about various topics related to student life, academic tips, and personal growth. This job is the reason why you are reading my words now. Blogging improved my writing skills and helped me reflect on my journey, making it a therapeutic and rewarding experience.
Juggling multiple jobs while maintaining my studies was challenging, but it was also immensely rewarding. It taught me time management and the importance of balancing various commitments. More importantly, it provided me with a wealth of experiences and skills that have prepared me for life beyond the campus. If you're a student considering taking on a paid job while studying, I wholeheartedly recommend these roles. The opportunities for growth and learning are unparalleled, and you might just find yourself wearing more hats than you ever imagined.
If you're interested in pursuing similar opportunities, take a look at the student jobs section of the Student Hub and keep an eye on the latest vacancies and opportunities on CareerHub.
Similoluwa Adefioye is a Masters's Student of International Education and Development. She enjoys writing and utilising the pen for the benefit of others. When not writing, she is either working as an International Educator, representing international students within and outside Sussex or advocating for Gender Equality as one of the UN Women UK CSW 68 delegates.