When I started working at the Guild, my only previous experience was in hospitality jobs. The idea of coming into an office and attending meetings felt really daunting. But, as it turns out, I had nothing to feel anxious about. The Guild has given me a gentle, supportive, and serious introduction to a completely different side of university life, and a glimpse of what life after graduation could look like.
I didn’t know what to expect, I was excited about my role but unsure what everything else would be like. I imagined feeling out of my depth and underqualified. This was not the case, I was only expected to be myself, and the Guild ensured I would be upskilled and guided. I never imagined a workplace could be so supportive, where it’s not only okay but encouraged to say no to extra shifts, take breaks for your wellbeing, and express your needs. I thought being student staff would mean feeling separate from the permanent team, but I was embraced from day one and always felt equally valued and cared for.
Beyond the welcoming environment, working at the Guild has opened my eyes to the world of third-sector work. I’ve learned how a large charity operates, how different departments function together, and what effective leadership looks like in practice. These are things my degree could never have taught me. The hands-on experience I’ve gained has been truly invaluable. My role has provided me with training opportunities alongside professionals from charity organisations across the UK, including formal campaign and social change workshops. My ideas and insights have always been respected, and by the end of the year, I was leading and organising four Advisory Boards and running meetings with University stakeholders, something I never imagined I’d be doing as a student.
One of the most enriching aspects has been joining a new community. Socially, the Guild has been just as rewarding. I’ve made friends with fellow student staff and connected with colleagues I wouldn’t have met otherwise. Seeing the fun and vibrant lives of young professionals has given me so much hope (I was half-expecting office work to be grey and miserable!). Having a slightly older group of colleagues to talk to has grounded me and given me valuable advice and perspective beyond my own peer group.
Working at the Guild has given me so much confidence and has helped me understand what I value in a workspace and a job, finally giving me an idea of what I might want to do after I graduate. Through the Guild I have developed new professional skills and been given a supportive community and friendships I truly value. It is the perfect stepping stone from university life to the world beyond.
Isabelle, Campaigns and Democracy Assistant
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