Academic Society of the Year​ 2022

Awarded for outstanding achievement, and/or impact by an Academic Society.

College of Business, Technology and Engineering​
HR Network Society – Amelia Tuxford; Aoife Tough; Rosie Wade; Ellie Cunningham; Jasmine Bishop Bingley; Jeevan Lidhar Kaur; Zara Hohn-Zeo; Paula Ambroze; Joe Mycock; Ella Simpkin; Lauren Lowry; Xiaoqian He​

What they did:​
“As the academic supporting this society I have been blown away by the professionalism and dedication of members. Initially the committee agreed roles and a set of values and aims for the society. They planned a variety of events, with something happening at least once month, to allow students to network with and learn from practicing professionals, including course alumni, local employers and members of the professional body. The commitment to fundraise and to provide social events too is exceptional. This society celebrates its 10th birthday in 2022! We are holding a celebration event in February to honour the founding academic and thank one of our supporters who has been a regular guest speaker since the beginning. Winning this award this year would be a fantastic way to mark this Society’s decade anniversary.”​

What was the impact?​
“Students who are interested in a career in this field have benefitted from: a panel event, where different local professionals explained how they got into their roles and what they enjoy about their work; a local employer outlining the skills required for this career and how to make outstanding applications; a member of the professional body explaining how to best make use of the resources and support available; and professional networking opportunities via social events, such as a Christmas meal. The enhancement for these students’ employability is immeasurable and would not be possible without the hard work of the society’s committee members.”​

How it inspired others​
“The activity of the network is used to support promotion of the related courses offered by SHU, during student recruitment. It has persuaded countless new students to consider a career in this field and enrol onto programmes of study within SHU. For many students having access to a professional network is not easily attainable, even when they have graduated. Having that network provided from the first year of studies, via this society, has levelled the playing field and raised aspirations of students wishing to enter this career. I am extremely proud to be associated with this society and feel it is very deserving of this award.”

College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences​
Paramedic Society –  Alexandra Francis, Meghan Arnell, Meg Ashworth, Steffan Griffiths, Dean Rowbotham​

What they did:​
Despite being a member short and having no academic lead I think the paramedic society have really giving it their best this year, whenever faced with challenges they have worked hard to overcome this and still maintain positivity! They have engaged in different CPD events and with social events and are creating big plans for the rest of the year, covid has had a massive impact yet they have still been able to give something back to their members and will keep continuing to do so!​

Paramedic Society have run events that contribute to the CPD of paramedic students – offering both social and professional peer support. Their president also navigates child-care commitments while studying and actively running the society which is highly commendable. ​

What was the impact?​
Positivity and helpful CPD events to students during difficult times during their academic career such as exams or interviews, encouraged socials to enable members to build friendships and have a fun time amongst studying! Being inclusive at all times to all members!​

This society has offered invaluable peer-support for those involved, and expanded the opportunities for professional development and an informal exchange of ideas and experiences. ​

How it inspired others​
Gave them guidance and to understand where they were going in the next part of their journey, creating friendships to help along their academic career and maintain relationships that will last a lifetime which is essential for mental stability! There’s a balance between fun and learning . The active running of this society offers an inspirational model for other academic societies as well as members who may wish to be involved in the committee in future, and sets a high standard for peer-support and shared CPD opportunities.​

College of Social Sciences and Arts​
Psychology Society – Felicity Woodhouse, Mya Taylor, Kirsty Bullen, Hannah Watkins, Isobel Edwards, Jay Drake, Natasha Rippon​

What they did:​
“These students reinvigorated the Society from nothing, recruited a number of new members and provided wonderful social and learning events. They showed great leadership and communication.”​

What was the impact?​
“Started from little and regained a connection with students and staff.”​

How it inspired others​
“They inspired others by demonstrating great leadership, kindness and inspiration.”