Reflecting on our journey: insights from our IT Services Coaches

Posted on: 28 August 2024 in Meet our Team

As summer ends, we’re taking a moment to celebrate our IT Services coaches who have sadly come to the end of their employment with our department.

Here’s a glimpse into their journeys, the skills they’ve gained, and the impact their roles have had on their future careers.

First, let’s reintroduce our Coaches:

• Fida Adam - MSc Advanced Computer science 
• Elle-May Keenan - BSc physics with nuclear science 
• Grace Jing Rou - Bachelor of Law (LLB)
• Martins Eweniyi - MSc Advanced Computer Science

These talented individuals were selected back in November 2023 from over 93 applicants. The goal of the IT Coaches program was to support the optimisation of our current IT Services systems and services. During their time with us, they have supported initiatives such as analysing incidents raised with IT by our students, user testing for various projects and running drop-in events for user feedback surveys.  In August, after nine months of employment with IT Services, we sadly said goodbye and proudly saw them off to graduation. Before they left, they shared with us their insights. Thank you to all four of you for adding such value to our department in your time with us, we will miss you!  

We asked our Coaches, what did you enjoy most about your role as an IT Services Coach.

Grace: The flexibility offered by the department was a standout aspect for me. Being able to complete work from anywhere greatly enhanced my work-life balance and productivity.

Martins: I thrived in a collaborative environment and enjoyed working on various projects. Helping students and staff solve IT problems was particularly rewarding.

Elle: I appreciated the training opportunities and the trust placed in me to work independently.

Fida: The team was incredibly supportive, valuing my opinions and views, which made my experience truly enjoyable.

What new skills or knowledge did you acquire during your employment?

Grace: I gained valuable presentation skills, which were a game-changer for me as I hadn't had many opportunities to practice public speaking during my undergraduate studies. I learned how to organize my thoughts, present complex information clearly, and engage an audience effectively.

Martins: I developed skills in data analysis, customer support, satisfaction, and project management. I also gained deeper insights into the university's various software and IT infrastructure. I also learned about the behind-the-scenes efforts that ensure the smooth operation of university systems and how issues are raised and solved.

Elle: I acquired knowledge in continuous improvement. I also discovered more about all the different resources available for students.

Fida: My time in this role allowed me to enhance my skills in data analysis, creative problem-solving, communication, presentation, and teamwork.

How well do you think these skills will benefit you in your academic or future professional career?

Grace: Professionally, strong presentation skills are essential for effectively communicating ideas, leading meetings, and influencing stakeholders. The ability to convey complex information understandably will help me stand out and advance in any field I choose to pursue.

Martins: I acquired skills in data analysis, customer support/satisfaction, and project management. I also gained deeper insights into various software and IT infrastructures used by the university.

Elle: I think they will be very valuable in the workplace and something I am interested in building on.  

Fida: These skills are essential for my future career, providing a strong foundation for real-world applications and boosting my confidence in professional settings.

Were there opportunities for professional development, such as training sessions or workshops?

Grace: Absolutely. The IT Business Partnering team provided access to LinkedIn Learning, which was a great opportunity for professional development. I took advantage of this by engaging in Python and Excel courses, which significantly broadened my knowledge of programming languages and data analysis. We also had the chance to shadow a department of our interest - I chose to shadow the marketing department under IT services. This allowed me to attend a marketing and communications conference on campus but also gave me a behind-the-scenes look at what the marketing team does every day. It was a great way to gain a broader perspective and learn more about different aspects of the organization.

Martins: Yes, there have been numerous opportunities for professional development, for me personally, I have been able to make use of the resources and been able to shadow professionals in project management.

Elle: Yes plenty.  

Fida: Yes, opportunities like LinkedIn Learning and shadowing professionals were available, offering real-world experience and valuable certifications.

Were you able to apply any knowledge or skills from your academic studies to your job tasks? Or vice versa?

Grace: While my academic studies were quite different from IT, I was still able to apply some of my knowledge. For instance, the critical thinking and analytical skills I developed academically helped me with problem-solving tasks. On the flip side, the role significantly enhanced my presentation and interpersonal skills, which weren’t as emphasized in my studies. These new skills have complemented my academic background.

Martins: Yes, my academic background in Computer Science helped me understand and analyse IT issues differently and more effectively, while my work experience provided practical examples on how massive organisations function.

Elle: Yes, I was allowed to apply my data analysis skills. 

Fida: Yes, I applied academic knowledge to job tasks and vice versa, enhancing my understanding in both areas.

How has this job influenced your career goals and aspirations?

Grace: It broadened my perspective and made me realize that I can combine my legal background with interests in other fields, ultimately shaping a more diverse career path.

Martins: This job has solidified my interest in pursuing a career in Project management and technology consulting. It has also allowed me to see various career paths available within IT services.

Elle: I am interested in continuous improvement and technology systems. 

Fida: This job clarified my career goals, helping me identify my strengths and interests.

How has this job affected your personal growth and confidence?

Grace: I have grown a lot! This job has significantly boosted my personal growth and confidence. I now feel much more comfortable presenting myself in front of people, thanks to the frequent opportunities to deliver presentations and interact with stakeholders. This experience has helped me overcome my fear of public speaking and improved my overall communication skills.

Martins: This job has significantly boosted my confidence in my technical abilities and my interpersonal skills like presenting in front of professionals. I have become more self-assured in tackling IT issues and communicating effectively with others about the ideas I may have.

Elle: Positively. 

Fida: This job significantly boosted my personal growth and confidence, especially in communication and teamwork.

What have you learned about yourself through this job?

Grace: Through this job, I've learned that I am more capable than I thought I was, particularly in terms of time management. Balancing multiple commitments, such as my studies and work responsibilities, taught me how to manage my time effectively without compromising the quality of my work. This experience has shown me that I can handle a demanding schedule and still deliver solid results, boosting my confidence and preparing me for future challenges.

Martins: I’ve learned that I thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment and that I am capable of learning and adapting quickly to new challenges.

Elle: I have learnt the importance of self-motivation for time management. I have also gained valuable skills in creating presentations and speaking publicly. 

Fida: I learned that I enjoy problem-solving and working in a team-oriented environment

Although IT Services will not be running our Coaches program across the 24/25 academic year we do have many opportunities for students to work with our department via our Student Digital Engagement Group (StuDEG). Find out more about the programme and sign up for the StuDEG today.