College of Business, Technology and Engineering
Finalists
Ellie Cunningham
Joanne Andrew
Lucy Fenwick
Ollie Mitchell
Tom Robertson
WINNER!
Tom Robertson – BA (Hons) Business and Enterprise Management
What they did:
“Recognising the need to bring people together during COVID, The Student used their Presidency a Society to reduce the isolation and loneliness people by hosting society events including: a ‘Women in Business’ talk and Q&A giving students access to Debbie Harrison OBE, Managing Director of PricecheckUK, a Sheffield Based Business with a multi-million pound turnover. Over 20 students took advantage of this to network with Debbie and other students resulting in an increased sense of SHU community and applied enrichment activity.”
What was the impact?
“One student later presented on the profound impact that the Women in Business talk had on them. The Student also organised a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style competition with £50 prize money for the best idea, bringing together 10 student ideas presenting to an audience of 15, increasing both their confidence and socialisation opportunities during the ‘living with COVID’ period. Moreover, the long-term impact of The Student’s Presidency is a legacy for the current Society committee to grow the Enterprise Society further, supported by The Student and their network resulting in several Society events with guest speakers, student speakers and field trips!
Attending a placement has developed The Student personally and professionally. They frequently speak formally and informally with level 4 and level 5 students about how they were apprehensive about placement and how it helped them develop their communication skills, apply academic learning in a real-world setting and learn ‘on the job’ working with colleagues and trading globally. The Student generated over £15,000 in new business for the company at a single trade show, £285,000 in new business and nurtured new accounts into successful and prosperous clients. So successful was the student that the company nominated them for ‘Placement of The year’ and has them offered them a place on their International Account Manager Graduate Scheme. Not content with personal growth, The Student continually offers to speak with level 4 & 5 students about the benefits of placement, to encourage participation and the profound impact it had on their personal, professional and academic growth.”
How it inspired others:
“Through their enthusiasm and commitment to developing themselves and others, The Student has inspired students to lead and participate in the Enterprise Society; engage with placement even if they had reservations. Students have thrived as a result of interacting with this Student leading to probable improved retention and outcomes.”
College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences
Finalists
Doohan Blackburn
WINNER!
Doohan Blackburn – BSc (Hons) Biology
What they did:
“First generation into university education and they took every opportunity that came along. One of only two to gain a placement and returned to final year ready to make a difference. They became a student rep and ensured that students were supported. As well as fostering an inclusive atmosphere on the course they have taken on the daunting task of organising the end of year ball for all students in the department via BioSoc. They approach tasks, not as an overbearing individual, but as a leader who wants to engage with all and make a team work.”
What was the impact?
“Students are making better social and academic work groups. I feel supported and informed about upcoming issues. The ball is being organised effectively and there are different tasks for individuals to do so negotiation and delegation is leading to a sustainable society. This student has encouraged and supported others to be involved in activities which have made their lived more joyful.”
How it inspired others:
“Others, often the more timid, are taking on tasks and being involved in the BioSoc and their course.”
College of Social Sciences and Arts
Finalists
Yusuf Nawaz
WINNER!
Yusuf Nawaz – BA (Hons) Education with autism, disability and special educational needs
What they did:
“This student set up a brand-new society which focuses on teaching students British Sign Language.”
What was the impact?
“They have over 120 students signed up with around 70 students attending the sessions regularly.”
How it inspired others:
“The society is helping to break down barriers that deaf and hard of hearing students will face throughout their lives, by giving other students the opportunity to learn British Sign Language.”