Money Coach: Soji

Posted on: 5 March 2024 by Richard Finch in Student experiences

Meet Soji, a recent graduate who completed her master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering with Management (Healthcare), as she sheds light on her part-time role as a Money Coach at the University of Liverpool.

Can you please tell us more about your part-time job at the University of Liverpool?

I worked as a Money Coach at the Food Pantry, an initiative led by the University's Money and Advice Guidance Team. It's quite surprising to witness the number of students facing financial challenges at the university, struggling to afford essential groceries and necessities. The Food Pantry initiative steps in to lend a helping hand, offering these students essential grocery items at affordable rate. At the Food Pantry, my tasks included sorting, stocking, and organizing received food items and groceries. I also handled card transactions and maintained the pantry's overall cleanliness. Besides these duties, a significant aspect of my role was to offer fundamental financial guidance to students, coupled with practical money management tips. Also, delivering exceptional customer service and cultivating a positive and welcoming atmosphere were pivotal in ensuring that customers could shop with ease.

How did you find out about this opportunity?

I found out about this opportunity through Handshake.

What did the application process involve and how did you prepare for it?

In my application for this position, I submitted a CV and a cover letter through Handshake, expressing my sincere interest in joining the Food Pantry Team. The interview process was quite different from my previous experiences and I absolutely enjoyed it. It was more like a scenario-based group discussion, where candidates were randomly grouped and provided with scenarios to find solutions from the perspective of a Money Coach. This engaging and productive method facilitated dynamic discussions and diverse perspectives with individuals we haven't met before. Following our discussion, an interviewer evaluated the thoughts we shared. Additionally, there were some questions about the basic operations of the food pantry, ensuring candidates had thoroughly read and understood the job description and conducted prior research.

What are some of the top skills you've picked up from this type of work experience opportunity?

At the Food Pantry, our manager always used to say "Teamwork makes the dream work," and indeed, teamwork skills became one of my top takeaways. As an international student, I initially felt intimidated but the team's supportive atmosphere allowed me to be myself, significantly boosting my confidence and communication skills. Handling an average of 30 to 40 students visiting the food pantry, ensuring its smooth operation demanded meticulous attention to detail and adaptability to various circumstances. This job also highlighted the significance of empathy and active listening. On days when students entered the food pantry feeling stressed, our team offered a compassionate ear, delivering advice and guidance in every little way possible.

Can you tell us about how you balance your academic commitments with your part-time job?

The role was a casual role which was around 8-10 hours a week. Personally, I loved doing this job. I had much happiness going there, talking to people and offering a kind support. The team was very friendly and supportive and to be honest, going there was a stress reliever for me amidst all the coursework and deadlines.

What is your top tip for students currently looking for part-time work experience opportunities?

Stay informed by regularly checking the University's social media channels and Handshake platform. Tailor your cover letter and CV to align with the specific criteria outlined in the job description. If you encounter any uncertainties, don't hesitate to reach out to our wonderful Career Coaches. They have assisted me in crafting my CV and providing valuable suggestions for improvement. With numerous opportunities available, consistency and genuineness are key - stay committed, and you'll undoubtedly secure a rewarding position!