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There are many ways in which you can make a positive impact at Sussex, on our local community and the world. Here are some of our suggestions:

Help improve the student experience at Sussex 

The Connector Programme sees students and staff working as equal partners through co-creation; innovating, finding solutions and continuously improving the student experience at Sussex. As a Student Connector, you will be able inspire and actively make change at the University, while developing your leadership, teamwork and communication skills in a paid role.

Vote for your Student Representative! Student Reps work all year making the student voice heard and helping bring positive changes to your School. Voting opens tomorrow at 12 noon.

We’re also recruiting student callers to call our alumni. Not only will you be able to speak with Sussex alumni and find out first-hand what they’re doing now, you will also be helping to raise funds for some of our support initiatives with the Sussex Fund.

Getting involved in University life will also enrich your time at Sussex. Some of alumus Gideon Olanrewaju’s fondest memories were made in his roles as Student Rep and International Ambassador. Gideon is now a social entrepreneur and education advocate whose organisations seek to transform lives through education for children.

Make an impact in our local community

Volunteering is a great way to make a positive contribution and gain valuable work experience, build your confidence and develop your skills and experience. There are many opportunities for you to volunteer around Brighton, from tutoring local kids and participating in clean-up efforts to assisting at a local shelter.

If you’re looking for volunteering opportunities while you study, come to the Student Jobs and Volunteering Fair this Thursday 12 October in the Student Centre. You can book a timed slot through Eventbrite.

You can also search the CareerHub and the Students’ Union website for volunteering opportunities.

Take part in sustainability initiatives

Our goal at Sussex is to be one of the most sustainable universities in the world, and many of you share our passion! There are lots of Sussex students having local sustainability impact through Students’ Union societies and campaigns, as well as the students that sit on the SU Sustainability Committee.

On our website you can find things that you can do in your everyday life to live more sustainably, including tips to save energy, reduce your waste and travel more sustainably. And with the free EcoGo app, you can get rewards for every sustainable travel choice you make!

You can also become a Green Impact Project Assistant and work with Sussex staff to make your school more sustainable. Email sustainable@sussex.ac.uk to register your interest.

Sign up for the Sustainable Sussex mailing list to be the first to hear about news, events and opportunities.

Do you have an idea for a better world? 

We can support you from the early stages of developing an idea for a business or social enterprise, all the way through to launching and scaling your venture. We also have a number of funding opportunities to help you launch and grow your business.

Book an appointment with a member of the Entrepreneurship team to discuss your ideas, get specialist advice, or to get help with finding a mentor.

They also provide workshops where you can gain skills that employers look for, like problem-solving, team-work, creative thinking and pitching ideas. Find out more on the Student Hub.

Read about alumna Emnet Tiruneh who is the 2023 StartUp Sussex winner for her company Addis Health, which aims to fill the gap with accessing affordable healthcare and job creation for medical doctors across Ethopia.

Emnet is among thousands of inspiring alumni on Sussex Connect. Join now to seek mentoring and industry advice and get a head start on your career.