Irene Libelli
Life as a Student Experience/Communications Intern!
Hiya! I’m Irene, a 4th-year International Relations and Sociology student, and for about a year now, I've been part of the School’s Student Experience Team. Reflecting on this journey offers me a chance to share how profoundly it has shaped my university life and benefitted our student community!
As part of my role, I sit on STEF. The Student Experience Forum (STEF) was formed in 2019 with a clear mission: to enhance the student experience for students within the School of Social and Political Sciences (SPS). By supporting our School's student societies and building a stronger community, STEF plays a crucial role. Throughout the year, we organise events like the SPS Ball, a student ceilidh (The Big Shindig), the SPS Quiz, the Big Welcome… if you have been to one of them, I’m usually the one giving a speech!
Working with the Student Experience team, alongside Linzi, the Student Experience Manager, Sarah; the Student Experience Coordinator, and Kathryn, the Student Experience Administrator, has allowed me to engage directly in these initiatives, as well as support the organisation of various career and alumni events and class reps get-togethers, each designed to enrich our academic and social lives. My role involves anything from event planning and coordination to managing our social media presence and collaborating with student societies. This has not only kept me at the heart of our vibrant community but also in constant interaction with my peers, understanding and addressing their needs.
This role has been incredibly beneficial to me personally! It has equipped me with vital skills such as project management, communication skills, and public speaking. Moreover, handling real-time feedback, problem-solving during events, and strategising for future activities have all enhanced my professional capabilities and boosted my confidence.
The impact on our SPS student community has definitely been significant! Students appreciate the diverse events that help create a community and a break from academia, and provide networking opportunities. Additionally, I have supported the Student Experience team in the creation of a Digital Yearbook for our graduating class, which has become a cherished keepsake for many!!
Looking ahead, the Student Experience Team is eager to keep this momentum going. We are always on the lookout for new ideas and people who are passionate about improving the student experience and, as I’m about to graduate, I’ll be finishing up my internship soon! If you are interested in joining our team, watch out for recruitment details!
Being a part of the Student Experience Team has not only allowed me to contribute to a cause close to my heart but also prepared me for future challenges in my career. If you’re part of the SPS community, I encourage you to get involved, whether by attending our events, providing feedback, or share your ideas. I hope to see many of you at our next event, the Big Shindig aka the SPS Ceilidh!!