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Scroll down for more information about events and to learn about me.
What I do
Hi, I’m Alison. I am the Student Adviser for the Institute of the Americas and History of Art and I am here for you as a key point of contact during the first year of your undergraduate studies. I am available to discuss any wellbeing, support, and student experience matters.
Events
Working within the Student Support and Wellbeing team, I will be hosting a range of events and activities during term time to support your Social bonding, Skills for life and Wellbeing at university. Explore the workshops you can join throughout the academic year, all listed below, then click the event hyperlink to reserve your place.
- Term 1: September 25th - December 15th 2023
Your guide to thrive - Support group - 17th November @ 13:00
Not quite settled in yet or found your tribe? Feeling imposter syndrome? Pop in for a facilitated chat and some biscuits with fellow 1st year undergrads in History of Art and Institute of the Americas. This is an in-person event being held in 26 Gordon Square, Room G09.
Your guide to thrive - Tea and Talk - 22nd November @ 14:00
Grab a tea, get stuck into some mindfulness colouring, and chat to your Student Adviser. This is an in-person event in 22 Gordon Street, Room G10.
YOUR GUIDE TO THRIVE - FEEL GOOD FILM NIGHT - 27TH NOVEMBER @ 18:00
Watch a feel-good film in the lovely Gustav Tuck Lecture Theatre, Main Building, 302
- Term 2: January 8th - March 22nd 2024
BEAT THE JANUARY BLUES - SOCIAL AND HISTORICAL SCIENCES SCAVENGER HUNT - 22nd January @ 14:00
This event has taken place.
EXAM SEASON TOOLKIT - RELAX, REST, REVISE, REPEAT - 13TH MARCH, 14:00-16:00 PHINEAS BAR
As part of SSW's Exam Season Toolkit, your SHS Student Advisers present Relax, Rest, Revise, Repeat!
If you've been feeling stressed and in need of a break, unsure with where to start with your revision, or just in the mood for some self-care, then this is the event for you!
From revision tips and tricks, mindfulness chocolate tasting, temporary tattoos, and plenty of arts and crafts, there's something for everyone. We'll have FREE cakes, snacks and drinks, with plenty of space to ask any questions you may have. Let us know you'll be coming by booking using the link above, and head to the Phineas Bar between 2-4pm on Wed 13th March. We can't wait to see you!
- Term 3: April 22nd - June 7th 2024
More information to come soon.
Who am I?
- About Alison
What was your experience of further or higher education like?
I loved my time at Durham University – like UCL, it is steeped in history and I felt honoured to be a part of it. University allowed me to spread my wings, feel independent and expand my horizons – both academically but also through getting to know all kinds of different people and viewpoints. Later in my career, I completed a Counselling Diploma at a local college – this was another great experience, as I studied alongside fellow mature students, who all had great lived experiences that enhanced the counselling studying we were doing. I love to learn and will always be looking for opportunities to expand my horizons. We are never done learning!
Who or what made the biggest positive impact on you when you were studying? And how did they support you?
My tutors were very encouraging and supportive during my time studying. I believe that one of the greatest gifts that teachers can give their students is to be in their corner, foster self-belief and a sense of ownership of their work. I think the other positive impact was extra-curricular activities – I worked the student bar and performed in my college musical. During the intensity of final year, particularly, this provided perspective, an outlet and hugely improved my wellbeing, which in turn helped my studies!
What working achievements or initiatives are you most proud of?
I am very proud of one of the roles I took on at my previous job, in local government – Domestic Abuse Casework. This role involved a great deal of partnership work, to support survivors of domestic abuse. Supporting clients and working holistically, felt very rewarding, as I was able to witness progress in all aspects of their lives, from levels of esteem and self-worth, empowerment, through to long lasting practical support (like good, safe housing and debt management), which all contributed to improved wellbeing and resilience. That role was what inspired me to take up the Student Adviser role at UCL, as I do love working holistically with people – it’s so rewarding.
If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?
So many things! Does it have to be one?
Be proud of getting out of your comfort zone, including being a novice and making mistakes – this is living! You’re stronger than you know – vulnerability and openness is a strength Treat yourself with the kindness you show others Don’t compare your insides to other people’s outsides (inc. social media!)What would it surprise people to know about you?
I had aspirations of being a radio presenter as a teenager, and helped out at a local radio station in Liverpool
I was once a bouncer for Take That – which involved standing guard outside the school sick bay, whilst they got ready.