Iuri, International Student Experience and Support Assistant
Who are you, and what is your job title?
How long have you worked at the University?
I’ve been working in this role for three months, but I’ve worked for the University in a number of different roles throughout my university time and after. As a whole, I’ve been working here in some way for around five years.
What does your job involve?
My job is primarily to be a first point of touch for international students when they need some help, particularly in terms of immigration. I try to help them out if it's a basic inquiry. If I can’t help I direct them to the appropriate place. Besides that, I also help the International Student Team with processes and tasks.
What other jobs have you done at the University?
I started working for the University when I was a student as an Ambassador for the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, helping out with open days, going to schools and talking about University life. Then the main job I had as a student was working with Residence Life as a Residence Mentor, which was a job that I think changed my life. It was really exciting and gave me the skills to keep working on my career. I was a Mentor for two years and then I was elected International Student Officer for the Students’ Union. I worked for a year as a Union Officer and then after that I had an internship for the Music Department and an internship with the International Student Support Team.
Why do you think the University is a remarkable place to work?
It’s an incredible environment to be in with the range of different things that people are studying, and people from all these different cultures and backgrounds. When you are working for the University you are remaining in touch with this very exciting nature of the University environment, that’s the thing that appeals most to me. Besides that, there is a lovely working culture where there is respect for work/life balance. People are very friendly and you’re safe to be who you are.
How would you describe the working culture at the University?
I really enjoy the culture here, there is an atmosphere of acceptance and respect. You feel that you have the time to learn your role and there are people around to support you.
What opportunities has working at the University provided you with?
When I look back at my CV most of the roles that I’ve had so far were University opportunities that I’ve embraced. Working on open days gave me skills to progress and work for Residence Life. In Residence Life I made friends that will last for the rest of my life, so I think that’s invaluable as well, the relationships that you form. The Residence Life role also gave me skills to progress to be a Student Officer. From the opportunities I was given in each role, the progression was very clear towards the next role, and I also developed skills that I can bring to my everyday life too, interpersonal skills, communication etc.
What skills/experience from your time as a student at the UoS were key to you getting your role/useful in your current role?
I work supporting international students. Because I was an international student and an International Student Officer, it just feels very natural. Also, I can see that the interpersonal and problem-solving skills that I developed through my course have been fundamental to the roles I've had.