HR Network Society
College of Business, Technology & Engineering
What they did:
The [Academic Society] has once again had another successful year as a result of the hard work and dedication of its committee. The core committee members elected chose to start the year reflecting on their past successes and current effectiveness. As a result, they chose to implement two new roles to the committee – ‘Social and Events Coordinator’ and ‘Marketing Officer’ – to increase the diversity of the committee population and to help make the society more inclusive. Many of the core roles were filled by [Course] students and so the team wanted to bring a greater variety of ideas and a wealth of business knowledge from a wider range of courses and levels of study, achieved through a bielection. The committee have gelled well together and are dedicated to meet weekly to discuss future and current plans for the society.
What was the impact?
At the beginning of the first semester, the team came together to deliver a free ‘Speed Networking’ event for students of all levels and degrees. The aim of the event was to offer career advice for students through a rotation of eight different working professionals, all of which had different industry backgrounds and many of whom were ex-university students themselves. The companies present included Brand Alley, the NHS, The Red Cross and Rotherham United Football Club, to name a few. The evening was a great success and offered students the chance to ask career-based questions and to build their professional network, particularly important for students applying for placements or graduate jobs. The committee went above and beyond by creating prompt cards for the students to use at the event in case they struggled making conversation. They also provided free food, important considering the current cost-of-living crisis which is impacting students greatly.
Additionally, the committee took a team to the CIPD conference in Manchester in November, another great opportunity to network and learn more about the key challenges that [subject] practitioners and businesses are currently facing, with many inspiring guest speakers attending. Similarly to last year, the committee also chose to delivery a Christmas celebration in December to help students de-stress and have company during a potentially lonely period for those not returning home. They chose to organise a bowling night, with great fun had by all. As a result of their efforts in the well-being sector, the society were shortlisted as one of 10 out of 750 UK-wide societies for the Bright Network ‘Next Gen’ Award 2023 in November, an amazing accomplishment for the team. To be recognised for this, the team were nominated and had to present a short video about their hard work over the last three years.
How it inspired others
At present, the society are taking part in a 800mile fundraising campaign for ‘Shelter,’ a brilliant charity who are working to combat the devastating housing crisis currently impacting thousands of people, including our university students. The Committee’s goal is to collectively cover 800 miles between them over the month of February to raise money and increase awareness among the student body and local community. The society have used their CIPD contacts to pick a cause that is close to their hearts. They are also currently taking part in welcoming new students of January 2024 to the university by attending welcome marketplace events throughout February. They are also planning another brilliant end of year ball for students to celebrate their successes at the end of the academic year.
The society is deserving of this award because of their dedication, commitment and enthusiasm in supporting students to personally and professionally thrive whilst at university, demonstrated by all of the above.
Paramedic Society
College of Health, Wellbeing & Life Sciences
What they did:
ParaSoc have engaged their members by regularly organising inclusive events which provide a sense of belonging and community. Since its relaunch committee members have increased membership numbers by providing a diverse range of social, community engagement and learning opportunities.
The society offers opportunities for networking with professionals in the field, alumni, and other societies, fostering connections that can be invaluable for future careers.
Parasoc are widely known amongst their peers within the College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences for initiating innovative programs, collaborations, or projects within the university and the larger paramedic community, showcasing leadership and creativity.
The committee prioritises the professional development of its members, offering resources, mentorship, and guidance that contribute significantly to their growth and readiness for their careers. The society actively participate in community volunteer initiatives, showcasing a commitment to serving the community beyond academic pursuits.
What was the impact?
ParaSoc has created an outstanding environment for its members! Their focus on inclusivity, community engagement, professional development, and innovation speaks volumes about the society’s commitment to its members and the broader paramedic community.
The efforts to increase membership numbers through diverse events and learning opportunities indicate a proactive approach to engaging with students and providing them with a sense of belonging. Networking opportunities with professionals, alumni, and other societies can be invaluable for students’ future careers, offering them connections and insights beyond the academic realm.
Initiating innovative programs and collaborations within the university and the larger paramedic community demonstrates leadership and a commitment to advancing the field. This kind of creativity and initiative can have a significant impact on the development of paramedicine as a whole.
Moreover, prioritising professional development through resources, mentorship, and guidance is crucial for preparing students for their careers. Providing these tools can significantly contribute to their readiness and success in the field.
Lastly, the society’s active involvement in community volunteer initiatives reflects a commendable dedication to serving beyond academic pursuits, showcasing a strong sense of social responsibility and a desire to make a tangible difference in society.
Overall, ParaSoc’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, professional development, and community engagement positions it as an exemplary society within the College of Health, Wellbeing, and Life Sciences.
How it inspired others
Events to date have included teaching Basic life support to over 200 members of the community, collecting donations for local food banks, increasing wellbeing amongst students by organising group walks, organising trips to festive markets, quizzes, guest lectures and many more.
By organizing this wide array of events, ParaSoc demonstrates a comprehensive approach to engaging its members, benefiting the community, and supporting student welfare. The society’s multifaceted initiatives show a commitment to holistic development and community service, enhancing the overall experience for its members and making a positive impact on the wider community.
In essence, ParaSoc’s success likely serve as a catalyst, inspiring other societies to adopt similar approaches or principles in engaging their members, fostering connections, promoting innovation, prioritising professional development, and engaging in community service. Through its actions and achievements, ParaSoc have set a benchmark for excellence and have hopefully inspired others promote themselves and their subject group areas.