Launch of the Alumni Ambassador Programme 2023
What is the Alumni Ambassador Programme?
The University’s Office of Philanthropic Partnerships and Alumni (OPPA) has recruited a cohort of volunteer Alumni Ambassadors from the graduating class of 2023.
The Ambassadors can provide a wider range of alumni volunteer support for teams across the University.
This pilot group of volunteers can become leaders and champions of the principles of Inclusion, Collaboration, Internationalism and Sustainability and in doing so allow us to react quickly and professionally to any requests for alumni volunteer support from across the University.
Every department and school at the University is represented amongst our 50 ambassadors, except Architecture which has no alumni yet. Of our Alumni Ambassadors, 25% are international alumni and 33% are postgraduate. Our Ambassadors have committed to volunteering an average of 2 - 3 hours per month, seasonal variations permitting. Our Ambassadors are keen to collaborate with academic and other professional departments to support our work for public good in key areas of interest such as:
- Sustainability, the environment and climate change
- Mental health
- Human rights, global justice and sanctuary for the displaced
- Entrepreneurship, including social and community enterprise
- Access to education for everyone, no matter their background or lived experience (Uni of Opp)
How to enlist an Ambassador
To request or discuss working with an Alumni Ambassador on your project, event or activity, please complete the form below.
We hold more information about Ambassadors’ backgrounds (such as journey to university; roles held as a student; scholarships; current employment/location).
Alumni Ambassadors can share their authentic stories with prospective and current students through activities such as speaker events, mentoring and buddying programmes.
Alumni Ambassadors have completed the University’s Data Protection (GDPR) and Equality & Diversity training packages. They can be invited to undertake the following duties:
- To assist academic and professional departments in their recruitment programmes
They can work with relevant departments and share their stories with prospective students through activities such as Open Days and speaker events and creating a profile (written or filmed).
- To assist academic and professional departments in their career programmes
Working with relevant departments, they can share their insights into job-hunting and industries for current students. This could be through activities such as speaker events, mentoring, buddying and creating a profile (written or filmed).
- To assist in promoting and taking an active part in alumni engagement and philanthropic activities
- Periodically providing feedback and collecting data
Profiles
Please take a look through the profiles of our Alumni Ambassadors below and do let us know if anyone stands out as being particularly suited to your project. You can search through our portfolio of Ambassadors by department, area of interest or using any other key word by simply typing a word or phrase into the search bar below. There is no need for you to identify individuals if you would prefer for us to choose.
We cannot guarantee that the Alumni Ambassador you indicate a preference for will be able to work with you, but we will match your needs to the best candidate available.
| Image | First Name | Last Name | Subject studied | Profile | Area of interest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Frederik | Zitzmann | Chemistry | My PhD from the GCCE at York focused on green & sustainable chemistry. I've spent eight years here and am from Switzerland. I seek to bring academic knowledge and industry together to carry research into the real world. I'm passionate to promote sustainability and pool knowledge to fight climate change & protect our environment while building on existing knowledge of sustainability, Biorefineries and tackling issues like food waste. With the ISA, we tye together cultures/experiences that make York unique. I've adapted to varied environments: research conferences, UG demonstrating or schools outreach, to educate about sustainability/greenness. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary
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Rajat | Sharma | Chemistry | I'm thrilled to introduce myself as a York alumnus, committed to advancing the UoY's mission. With a foundation in Chemistry, I've honed my expertise in educational outreach, cross-disciplinary projects & public-facing activities and look forward to leveraging my knowledge for positive impact on society. My lived experiences have instilled an appreciation for diversity & inclusivity, values I believe are crucial for fostering a supportive & enriching environment. My skills align with the areas of mental health and promoting access to education for all. I'm eager to contribute my passion to collaborate on initiatives that address these issues. |
Mental Health;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
|
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Lucy | Brooks | MA Medical History and Humanities | Hello! I'd like to give back to the UoY community that has supported me for the past 4 years and to advocate for students from underprivileged backgrounds like myself. I have faced numerous health challenges during my time at York and wish to be a positive example for future students, demonstrating that academic success is achievable even in the face of adversity. I worked for Yucall's student fundraising team and thoroughly enjoyed raising money for scholarships that can help to open doors for future students and am excited to continue to work with the University to help those who need it most. |
Mental Health, Sanctuary, Uni of Opp
|
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Nuh | Cooper | Electronic Engineering | I never thought I'd go to university coming from one of the worst schools in a city voted worst to live in the UK, family without much money and my struggle with dyslexia - I left school without GCSEs, beginning nightshift factory work. A York student inspired me to believe in myself & follow my engineering dreams. I studied for GCSEs in nightshift breaks & went to college before entering UoY as a mature student (25). Diagnosed with PTSD & Crohn's Disease in 1st year, my physical & mental health took a big hit. I failed the year so had resits, learned from it & progressed. I established a non-profit Role Models Yorkshire to inspire others from similar backgrounds. We've reached 100,000+ people and I was awarded Student Social Mobility Champion at the UK House of Lords. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Sarah | Stevens | Biology | I've benefitted from the nonjudgemental & inclusive approach of staff during my 4-year Biology integrated masters. I achieved top marks in my cohort, winning prizes for best academic performance in 2nd & final year which I wouldn't have dreamt was achievable coming from state school. I was lucky to secure paid lab placement over the summer through the Generation Research scheme, gaining valuable research experience. I was taught to row and have since represented UoY at national level 22 times, made possible by the YUSU Activities Access Grant. I volunteered as Welfare Officer for the club, helping signpost those in need to fantastic support. |
Mental Health;Uni of Opp
|
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Bryany | Maughan | Mathematics | At University I worked 4 jobs & had a range of experiences. At YuCall, I loved the direct positive impact to students. Coming from a background without higher education progression, I understand how difficult & daunting university can be. As a Maths department ambassador it was amazing to assist prospective students with their queries. Morrisons & Serve Legal gave me people skills; the work wasn't quite as rewarding as at UoY! Societies and extra-curricular courses like Code First Girls expanded my skills. Shock Soc (Engineering) is a highlight, sparking a love for soldering & circuitry. I've secured a graduate role in software engineering. |
Sustainability;Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Viviane | Carnelutti | LLM Art Law | Prior to my York Law School master's, I studied History/History of Art at UoY. I've honed skills in researching ethical & historical dimensions of repatriating cultural heritage & am driven to contribute to initiatives that advocate for the return of cultural artifacts to their countries of origin. I was a PG & international student ambassador, departmental rep, mentor & AIESEC volunteer (biggest student-led NGO in the world). The experiences enriched my UoY days and provided belief in the power of inclusivity, effective communication & cultural exchange. I look forward to helping to create a more interconnected & thriving art community. |
Mental Health;Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Lorna | Sharpe | MSci Psychology with Integrated Masters | As a first generation University student from an underachieving area. I'm proud of breaking stereotypes & feel strongly about advocating for others from disadvantaged areas; no student's potential should be defined by their postcode. I have a keen interest in mental health advocacy. I'd love to carry out more work with UoY, especially considering the cost of living crisis' impact on students & graduates. Like many graduates, I'm struggling to find employment in my chosen field. Speaking to peers, I believe more can be done to help with applications. I look forward to exploring avenues which will inform & assist current & future students. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Tamara | Ullyart | English Literature and Linguistics | I'm familiar with the English Literature & Linguistics departments and was Faculty Rep for arts & humanities. I've worked as a Student Fundraiser and have knowledge of existing alumni networks. I live with a physical disability - Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy. It impedes my balance, ambulatory mobility & fine motor skills. I take opportunities and don't let these challenges override my love of academics & commitment to making a difference. I'm passionate & involved with sustainability issues, working throughout my UoY days to improve York's sustainability ratings & teaching as well as engaging in climate change communication roles outside UoY. |
Sustainability, Mental Health, Sanctuary, Uni of Opp, Enterprise
|
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Emma | Burton | English and Related Literature | As I head into the next phase of my life I want to continue advocating for diversity within Arts and Humanities. In my experience, I've often felt intimidated and unsure of how to pursue my creative passions compared to my more affluent peers. Much of the time this is merely from a lack of opportunity to experience & interact in these artistic spaces. Being from a traditional ex-mining town, finding myself in the company of academics and creatives was new & I doubted if I should be in such company. I want to build a network of like-minded creatives facing their own barriers into the industry, in order to widen opportunities for everyone. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Uni of Opp
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Eleanor | Austin | Politics with International Relations | I'm passionate about human rights, migration and peacebuilding. My dissertation on transitional justice in Colombia highlighted internally displaced people within the peace process. I start a masters in Politics of Conflict, Rights and Justice at SOAS & hope to go into research. I've been part of UoY societies & committees: Director of Journals for York Global Affairs, Media Manager for Photosoc, providing me with time management, design & leadership skills. I was accepted onto competitive courses & learned that I love to mentor as a STYM, UCAS mentor with Student Action for Refugees, TEFL mentor for the Global York Project & peer mentor for Project SEARCH. Supported by the Politics department & UoY during my time here, I want to help ensure it is a welcoming place, especially as I'm a first generation graduate. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Genevieve | Mynott | BA philosophy MA Analytic Theology | I've completed UG & PG degrees at York in Philosophy and Analytic Theology. I've been a student ambassador, helping at department open days, and a peer-assisted learner, mentoring 1st years struggling with modules. I was on the committee for Enactus York, a student led society working to create social enterprise projects in the local community; I was HR & Development director and previously an events officer. This work allowed us to engage with local schools, foodbanks and other community members to create positive impact in their lives. The skills acquired with Enactus have led me onto a graduate scheme at Barclays in London. |
Sustainability;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Catherine | Hickley | Politics with International Relations | I'm starting the NHS's General Management Training Scheme (Policy & Strategy) & will gain a PG Diploma in Health Policy at Imperial & PG qualification in Healthcare Leadership. I was a College Mentor, Student Ambassador, Mentor, tutor for York Students in Schools, York Experience Hub video producer and wellbeing calls officer. I founded/project-led local health-based social enterprise Community Roots through student society Enactus. On placement at GSK I was an EDT STEM Ambassador for Year 8s & was awarded Industrial Cadets Platinum Leaders Award. I received the Chancellor's Leadership Award for my performance in the York Award, especially the York Leaders Programme. I'm especially excited by mentorship programmes to support student growth & social entrepreneurship. |
Mental Health;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Sophia | Razak | BSc Psychology | I have recently graduated from BSc Psychology with first class honours. I have enjoyed running choirs and performance societies during my time at York, encouraging people to try new things in welcoming environments as well as exploring my own leadership and organisation skills. I am passionate about helping everyone get the opportunities they deserve, having grown up hearing the experience of my family emigrating to England. I am also passionate about using psychology to encourage people to make more conscious decisions about the environment. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Rebekah | Young | BA (Hons) English Language and Linguistics | I've been a Course Rep, Student Ambassador & assisted at Open Days. I joined societies, was Netball Captain & Alcuin Social Media Rep. As a Laidlaw Scholar, I completed independent research over 2 months in Fiji as part of a project with ThinkPacific gaining a Chartered Management Institute Qualification (Level 5) & teamwork, sustainability & research skills. Voluntary/paid work in healthcare, teaching, marketing & hospitality have furthered my professional development. I'm from Hartlepool, an area of relatively low academic progression; I am the first in my family to attend university. I begin a PGCE English training at UoY in 2023. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Uni of Opp
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Eve | Grant | Chemistry | Hi, I'm Eve. I've recently graduated with a Masters of Chemistry in Chemistry, the Atmosphere and the Environment (with a year in industry), completing a thirteen month industrial placement at the FAAM Airborne Laboratory, based in Cranfield. During my time at university, I was a course representative for three years, representing the views of my cohort, alongside being a student ambassador (working both in person and online events). My hobbies include reading, golfing and rambling. | Sustainability |
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Kierran | Flack | Biomedical Sciences (Integrated Masters) | I am from a small village in Suffolk but moved to York to study a BSc in Biomedical Sciences in 2019. However, I switched and graduated in 2023 with an Integrated Masters in Biomedical Sciences. I am a first generation student that believes education should be accessible to everyone regardless of background or lived experiences. The University of York has provided me with an array of opportunities for personal and professional development such as a Generation Research studentship in the summer of 2022. I look forward to giving something back to the University of York, especially the Biology Department. |
Mental Health;Uni of Opp
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| Shehnaz | Salad | BA Economics & Politics | I'm an international student with an UG in Economics and Politics. My main interests lie in research especially in economic & social policies. My thesis was on impact of foreign aid on poverty rates in low-income countries and explored the Chinese-DAC debate. I have done projects on areas such as environment & climate change. I like to take part in humanitarian work which I am currently involved in. Among the diverse and important areas of work happening at UoY, I would like to contribute to initiatives focussed on human rights and access to education. |
Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Andrew | Hill | BSc Archaeology | I studied BSc Archaeology at the University of York, graduating in 2023. Within the University, I was a Laidlaw Scholar, Student Ambassador, Student Helper, and Support Member of the Archaeology Society committee. I participated in several further clubs and societies in my free time, volunteered to support the department's archaeological investigations, and held several external positions. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Uni of Opp
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Katarzyna | Durczynska | BSc Molecular Cell Biology (with a year in industry) | I'm from a small village in southern Poland. Undertaking my BSc in Molecular Cell Biology at York has been an incredible opportunity. Since first year, I've been active in YUSU societies: Polish Society, York Hornets, Swimming and Waterpolo, Tennis, Pole Exercise and Skiing & Snowboarding. I've served as both President and Vice President of the Polish Society, coordinating the committee's work & organising social events. I spent my placement year at Sosei Heptares, a biopharmaceutical company in Cambridge. I'm thankful for my time at York where I've developed both academically (in the amazing Biology Department), personally & socially. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Jamie | Duffill | Social Policy | I chose the MA in Social Policy to further develop my research and policy analysis skills. I decided to change subject from my undergraduate degree in History as I wanted to do applied social research that has the potential to make a difference to people's lives. At York, I have achieved this goal with my social research at the York-based charity Family Fund helping to shape the support they offer families raising disabled children. I hope to work in the third sector, in a policy, research or campaigns based role. I am happy to further discuss my experiences at York and how I used my Masters to move forward in a sector I'm passionate about. |
Mental Health;Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Hannah | Boyle | Politics with International Relations | Hi! Throughout my time at York, I was heavily involved in academic and social activities, enrolling in the 2021 cohort of Laidlaw Scholars, while being Deputy Editor of campus newspaper 'Nouse', and being elected President of YUSU reading society, The Tipsygate Readers. In addition to my studies, I have been awarded a level 5 qualification from the Chartered Management Institute in Management and Leadership, as well as completing programmes such as the HM Policy School and working as a intern supporting the University of York Shine programme. |
Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Owen | Buchan | BA History and Politics | I am a MA Social Research Student at the University of York. I recently completed my undergraduate degree in History and Politics at York where I discovered my passion for academia and decided this is what I would like a career in, by pursuing a PhD. I am really passionate about education, equality and opportunity for all. This is due to my own personal background and experiences as a first generation student, working class, from a single parent household and being LGBTQIA+. From my time as a Student Ambassador, I have seen the systems and opportunities York has put into place to give prospective students a taste of university life. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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| Olivia | Lynden | Law | I am a University of York Law graduate. Coming from a low income, non-university educated household in Blackpool, I am extremely passionate about the accessibility of quality education and fair opportunities to young people, regardless of their background or post code. To express this passion, I have spent my time at university volunteering as a student career mentor to help young people develop their application skills to enter legal careers. As a graduate, I now aim to continue my work in this area and be a representative and mentor for students from low socioeconomic backgrounds like myself. |
Mental Health;Uni of Opp
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Emma | Merryweather | Natural Sciences, specialising in Nanoscience | I'm a graduate of Natural Sciences, where I have been actively learning across physics, chemistry and electronic engineering departments. Where my BSc project was life sciences based, I am keen to transition into this space and I am now completing an internship with biology, working on a genomics and bioinformatics project. Where I remain a scientist at heart, I take interest the industry and business systems that also play a huge role in R&D. Having led UoY consultancy teams in UK wide competitions by TCS and McKinsey, I enjoyed using my analytical and research skills to solve 'business' problems. |
Sustainability;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Izzy | Woodberry | Maths | Hi! I've just graduated with a first in BSc Mathematics and I am currently employed at Morgan Stanley in the Technology division. For all 3 years of my degree I was the YUSU course rep for my year group in the Maths department and I was very passionate about making a difference and representing my fellow students. As a member of the LGBT+ community, I am passionate about representation and creating an inclusive and safe environment for all, which is something I look forward to doing in this role. I believe I can work with the university to improve student experience, as well as promoting the university through talking to prospective students. | Mental Health |
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Gracie | Daw | History and Politics | Whilst I was at York, I studied History and Politics, was a Laidlaw Scholar and was also Editor of Nouse, the campus newspaper. I am now pursuing a journalism qualification in London. In my first year at York, I was a Community Sustainability Champion. I care passionately about the environment and sustainability. As a former student ambassador, improving access to education is close to my heart. I also spent time working closely with YUSU, understanding the importance of student representation. |
Sustainability;Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Alice | Gamble | BSc Psychology | I graduated with a BSc in Psychology in 2023. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at York and elected to complete a Masters in Development, Disorders and Clinical Practice with the University. I am delighted to support the University and share the positive life memories created here. I hope to enhance and develop personal and professional skills and I look forward to supporting the University's strategy for public good, with a particular interest in Education Access and Mental Health. I am excited to work with departments and commit to continue representing the University's founding principles of equality, inclusion, and diversity. |
Mental Health;Uni of Opp
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Megan | Hurcombe | English Literature/Linguistics | I truly loved my time at York and am looking forward to giving back to the university. As a Student Ambassador, I loved connecting with students on Open Days and showcasing the best of what York has to offer. As a student from a lower socio-economic background, it was so important to me to encourage students to explore all their options. I'm enthusiastic about opening access to education to all, no matter their background. I strongly believe in the power of mentoring and would love to share my experiences to support and guide other students. After graduation, I accepted a position as a Marketing Assistant at Oxford University Press. |
Mental Health;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Ellen | Rintoul | BA English Language and Linguistics | As a student who came to York from a polar-1 postcode, knowing very few people who had progressed to university, I took advantage of as many opportunities as I possibly could. One of my main aims was to ensure that the opportunities that I was given were also made available to as many others as possible, this is something that I would like to carry on in my career. I would like to work in education policy and governance and work to widen access to higher education. I am returning to York to study for a Masters in Social Justice and Education |
Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Zara | Hearnden | Psychology | I was a first generation, working class, and neurodivergent student, and so I am well aware of the struggles that students can face when coming to university. During my time at York, I worked as a student ambassador and content creator, alongside working with the Student Communities team on programs like Step Ahead. I also had the privilege of being a volunteer with York Nightline for over two years, acting as project coordinator for one of those years. I am also interested in access to education for everybody, because many people face barriers to education, whether it be through their socioeconomic background or a disability. |
Mental Health;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Jack | Langton | Three Year LLB Programme (Law) | I am a graduate of the University of York Law School 2023, achieving an upper-second class division in my studies. I come from a low socio-economic background and an area of low social mobility which has significantly impacted multiple aspects of my studies and life. By becoming an Alumni Ambassador I aim to work closely with students from similar experiences to ensure that they are not discouraged from university as I once was. I wish to use this position as a platform to dispel myths and inspire the next generation of students, no matter their dispositions or external factors which may negatively affect their ambitions. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Shreya | Desai | BSc Film and Television Production | I am a woman in my 20s of Indian origin, having lived most of my life in Switzerland. I came to York to pursue a BSc in Film and Television Production. I can speak a variety of different languages, English, French and Gujarati fluently and have low to intermediate proficiency in Hindi, Spanish and Italian. I love music and acting on the side and have always enjoyed sport, specifically volleyball, badminton and basketball. I am an avid reader and writer and have written many short films and a few feature length ones. I am excited to break into the film and television industry and pursue a career there. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Fenella | Johnson | Sociology with Criminology | I have just finished by undergraduate degree in sociology with criminology. During my time at York I was a student ambassador and loved working with young people from varying backgrounds. I was an Athena Swan officer for the sociology department and helped create surveys and hosted events for students to share their thoughts on diversity and equality specifically within sociology. I plan to do a masters in Peace and Conflict studies at the University of York and continue to volunteer and in the future I hope to look further into war analysis, security challenges and the politics of human rights. |
Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Thomas | Smith | BA Politics | During my time at York I developed a particular interest in political psychology and I have now decided to return to York in September 2023 to study MSc Human Resource Management. As the first member of my immediate family to pursue higher education, I have embraced and enjoyed my transformative experience at the University of York. The role of an Alumni Ambassador presents a remarkable opportunity for me to actively share the resounding message of the University's core values of inclusivity, supportiveness, and respectfulness. I firmly believe that these values serve as the guiding principles of this institution. |
Mental Health;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Angel | Tarran | Law | I am always keen to gain new experiences and skills, which makes me really excited to be volunteering as an Alumni Ambassador! I am passionate about many areas that the programme supports, but my main passion would be ensuring accessibility and inclusivity to education for all. I personally know the difficulties that can arise with being a disadvantaged student and believe that education should be an option for everyone. I am eager to always uphold and promote the principles of the University of York, and make a difference wherever I can. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Loreh Ann Hiarling | Loiseau | Law | I am from Haiti, and I studied Law at the University of York, with the aspiration of becoming a qualified human rights lawyer. Back in Haiti, I also started studying law, politics and international relations, which I was unable to complete due to gang violence and the political instability of the country. As a qualified human rights lawyer, I will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to defend the rights of individuals and hopefully in the future influence policies and uphold the status of human rights as rights for all humans. |
Mental Health;Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Tinetariro | Muzunzandare | BEng Computer Science | I'm an aspiring Software Developer who just has just completed my undergrad degree in Computer Science which has led to an exciting first career step as an Associate Software Developer. There have been many contributions from generous, passionate and hopeful people that have led to the opportunities I pursue today. This includes a full scholarship that made it possible for me to access international education at one of the UK's top universities - York. I am keen to play a part in providing others with better access to quality education and assisting them to excel and thrive in their own professional journeys. |
Mental Health;Uni of Opp
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Magdalena Nicole | Sajnog | Curating and Art History | I have graduated with my BA in Curating and Art History. I come from Poland, where I studied at an art school. I worked part-time to support myself financially throughout my degree, which I started at almost 21 years old. The experience of being financially independent for a few years and without financial support from my parents was not easy. Working for the university project Streetlife Hub transformed my last year. It was quite a change from some years of apathy and low mood. Now, I am about to begin my research MA in Art History at the University of Utrecht, the Netherlands and experience living in yet another country! |
Mental Health;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Fotis Theodoros | Kaymenakis | Music BA | I was an international (EU) Music BA student from Greece. I have just graduated with a 76% and was awarded the Music Department Essay prize for the best undergraduate essay in the academic year 2022/23. I enjoyed being actively involved in university life. My most notable experience would be my position as a Student Fundraiser for 3 campaigns at YuCall. Furthermore, I volunteered for a sustainability marketing project and worked as an Open Day and International Welcome Team Ambassador. I have recently moved to London and become a Development Officer at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. |
Sustainability;Uni of Opp
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| Anaïs | Wyder Pivaral | BA English | I recently finished my undergraduate degree in English and Related Literature at the University of York. I am passionate about creative writing and literature and am pursuing a career in Publishing. Furthermore, I am half-Swiss, half-Guatemalan, so working for a company that is inclusive is incredibly important to me. I speak three languages (Spanish, German and English), and enjoy speaking to individuals from all parts of the world. Having grown up in Guatemala, I became used to seeing children working on the streets and so access to education for everyone, no matter their background or lived experience is incredibly crucial to me. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Bibiana | Zavodska | Psychology | I was a first-generation and estranged female student from a white (non-British) background. From childhood I had a dream to attend university in the UK but my anxiety, cultural differences, and financial means stopped me from participating in many social activities during the first year. To become a socially active member of university life, I applied for a position in YUSU and became a Department Representative for Psychology and later, at the beginning of my third year, I simultaneously became an Intern for Achieve Higher Education at the University of York. I am now studying an MSc Social Cognition at University College London (UCL). |
Sustainability;Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Jodie | Price | Biomedical Sciences | I'm feeling very lucky to have been given the role of Alumni Ambassador because my time at the University of York has shaped me so much as a person and I am excited to give back in whatever way I can. I have always dreamt of being a teacher, it's a career path I will definitely go on to pursue. When YSIS gave me the opportunity to volunteer in schools I jumped straight at the opportunity. I also worked with the Access and Outreach team as a Student Ambassador on campus tours and open days and absolutely loved sharing my experience of higher education with prospective students. Every young person should have equal access to education. |
Mental Health;Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Hannah | Carley | Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) | I graduated in 2023 with first a class honours degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics. I focused heavily on ethics, social justice and social policy during the final years of my degree and wrote my dissertation on the epistemic hostility faced by those applying for asylum in the UK on the basis of their sexual orientation. I was the first in my family to go to university. As a student, I volunteered extensively with YUSU as the PPE Department Rep, Social Sciences Faculty Rep and as a delegate to the 2023 NUS National Conference. I'm currently working as a Sixth Form Learning Mentor at a comprehensive school in West London. |
Sanctuary;Uni of Opp
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Louisa | Norton | MA Renaissance Literature | I'm a recently graduated MA Renaissance English alumni looking forwards to work with you! I take a lot of pride both in my personal approach to work - academic or not - and community involvement. My time at the University of York meant a liaising with a large variety of people in a number of ways, whether this was through outreach work as a Student Ambassador, or intra-university work in various societies, academic groups, or just representing the university as a whole. I think of myself as someone who enjoys fast-paced settings and can thrive in high-pressure situations, holding on to a sense of ease when entering any sort of work space. |
Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Antonia | Uivarosi | Msc Psychology in Education | I started my higher education journey at 18, when I moved to the UK from Romania to study. For my undergraduate degree I studied Education with Psychology. I then decided to transition into clinical psychology by doing a master's conversion course in Psychology in Education at York. As an international student, I have first hand knowledge of the difficulties faced by students from outside of the United Kingdom, especially in regards to issues of inclusion. As such, I can effectively support international students and contribute to overall goals of increasing diversity and inclusion. |
Mental Health;Uni of Opp
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Sian | Clark | Undergraduate LLB Law | My name is Sian Clark, I have just graduated Law with honours and am so excited to be a part of the ever expanding alumni. I am a mature, first generation, disabled student with 2 children, raising them as a single parent. I have worked in many different fields before starting university, but my main job title was care assistant, mainly working with dementia service users. I never really thought university a viable path for my life. However, one day I decided to try and change my own path and I am hoping to help others do the same by showing them that university is accessible and an option. |
Mental Health, Sanctuary, Uni of Opp
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| Sadiqa | A | Law | For the past four years, I studied at York Law School and completed a University Placement Year at Citizens Advice. During my time at University, I had the pleasure to volunteer and participate in numerous projects and events. I volunteered at York Students in Schools and contributed to reducing the attainment gap of disadvantaged students. As a Student Expert Panel member, I worked across the University to improve programmes and services, as well as participated in different student-run projects. |
Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Lingshuai (Zhangteng) | Zhang | MA Education | I'm the GSA's sabbatical academic officer and have had a great time at UoY. My UG is Chinese Calligraphy and Pre-Masters & Masters at UoY are in Education. As a student orator, I spoke about my passion for how cultural diversity affects student experience & achievement in HE. I've undertaken EDI work at UoY and realise the importance of alumni to York's reputation, sustainability & social impact. I've seen the impact of ethnic minority alumni on EDI & internationalisation work at UoY. For non-native ethnic minorities like me, there are challenges in maintaining a positive relationship with UoY post-graduation; I'm passionate about promoting a sustainable & diverse alumni network. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Annice | Bowen | Natural Sciences specialising in Mathematical Bioscience (with a year abroad) | I grew up in Birmingham, attending an inner-city state school. Inspired by incredible teachers, I discovered a love for biology & mathematics despite challenges brought by dyslexia. Everyday written/verbal tasks can be a challenge, yet dyslexia doesn't hinder me. I think it's a strength, pushing me to step outside my comfort zone & look at problems from different angles. The Mathematical Biology department opened my eyes to the importance of applied mathematics in biological research. My year abroad at Maastricht University amidst the pandemic was a challenging & incredible experience. Living & learning abroad forged my career aspirations. |
Sustainability;Uni of Opp
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Thomas | Hill | Medieval Studies | I left school at 16 with no real qualifications, trained as a welder and could only find work in manual labour & call centres. This blow to my confidence lead to years out of work with ill mental health. Once on a positive trajectory, I applied for an access course and entered higher education as a Mature Student. A 1st generation student, I care to encourage others into education. During my UG in History & Linguistics, I was the SU's Mature Students Officer. While my sister was 1st in my family to go to university, I am 1st to do a Masters (Medieval Studies). York is liberating in its culture and shows an interest in developing its students. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Uni of Opp
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Sophie | Carter | Adult Nursing | I've graduated with a BSc in Adult Nursing and am now a qualified nurse! Previously I was a mental health healthcare assistant- a valuable experience. I come from a working-class background & am a 1st-generation uni student. I volunteered in Indonesia teaching English to children & young adults, broadening my perspective. At York, I was actively involved as a student ambassador and unibuddy, contributing at events such as nursing interviews. I'm thrilled to be an ambassador, eager to contribute to positive change, expand my knowledge & further develop skills. I thoroughly enjoyed my York experience and love that I can continue to be involved. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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Afzaa | Sadiq | Law | I'm interested in current legal developments & changes in the law. I volunteered in local firms & courts to help proceedings & put the law in practise. Volunteering, giving back to my community & organising events has connected me to businesses & allowed me to bring citizens from different backgrounds together. I have voluntarily tutored students & worked in management roles in numerous business sectors, enabling me to understand how businesses operate & how to set up a successful business, further enabling me to work with the National Lottery to set up an enterprise. I'm eager to take part in academic work, events & extra curricular activities. |
Sustainability;Mental Health;Sanctuary;Enterprise;Uni of Opp
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