College of Science & Engineering

Greg Burgess - Student Retention Success Officer

 The role of a student retention and success officer is new to the College of Science and Engineering and gives the college an opportunity to reflect on what challenges students and staff face, but also to celebrate its strengths as a thriving hub of development.

Having previously worked as a Student Support Officer for the schools of Geography Earth Science, Chemistry and Computer Science, I was able to hear from both staff and students some of the issues that they faced. This new role gives me the opportunity to analyse these issues and to work in the college to explore initiatives which can improve the student experience and help reflect on what can help support our busy staff.

I have a real interest in community building and the importance of how “mattering” as a student impacts academic success. As well as the concept of mattering to the University of Glasgow, other important areas which positively impact self-confidence are friendship, teamwork, society membership, volunteering, fieldwork, sports clubs, as well as, course of study.

By bringing together the voices of students and staff I feel that there is an exciting opportunity to promote our diverse and global staff and student bodies and promote an institution where we can share our individual support needs, as well as celebrate how our communities address global challenges.

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First published: 24 May 2023