Student ambassadors
See what our student ambassadors and recent graduates say about Sussex.
Current student ambassadors
- Consolata, 3rd Year Economics and Politics
Why did you choose to study your subject?
For me, choosing Economics and Politics was the natural option following my A-level studies. With an interest in current affairs sparked from reading newspapers to watching the news, I am glad I chose my subjects. As a joint honours student, my modules are often completely different from each other and the variation means I never get bored and I’m always looking forward to learning something new. Studying two subjects has given me a broader view of the world and when I graduate, I will have developed many transferable skills and characteristics, allowing me to be successful in the future.
Why did you choose Sussex?
I am originally from London and when the time came to apply for university, I didn't want to study in London. I reasoned that I had three years to see another part of the country and also, I wanted the experience of living away from home! Choosing Sussex has been one of the best decisions made, as it has given me the best of what is available. Brighton is such a lovely place, the people are friendly and Sussex is the only university that is entirely located within a National Park. Whilst it was a gamble to start off with, it is one I am glad I took as I am happy here.
What's the best thing about university?
I was really nervous when I started university and worried about making new friends, handling the pressure and whether I would fit in. Now being in my second year, I appreciate all the opportunities available to me. It is very easy to find people with common interests and you develop many friendships not just on your course but through societies and part-time jobs.
As an active member of two societies and holding a position of responsibility in one of them – Society Treasurer, I can only sing praises about the benefits of joining societies. Apart from working with and getting to know like-minded people, you have the chance to develop skills and take part in new activities.
Any advice?
If there is one thing I wish I had known, it is not to be afraid of putting myself out there and being open minded. Ultimately, you have three to four years at university to study and earn a degree, but also to learn more about yourself and grow as a person.
If it weren’t for Sussex and all the opportunities I have had whilst here, or the people I’ve met I doubt I would be who I am today. I will be really sad when I graduate, but I will look back at my three years and say they were ‘simply the best’!
If you have the opportunity to go to university, my advice would be to enjoy your time there! You are only an undergraduate once and when those years are gone, you cannot get them back.
- Harry, 3rd Year Biomedical Science
Why did you choose to study your subject?
I chose to study Biomedical Science because I really wanted to become a doctor.
However, my A-Level Chemistry grade was not high enough to be accepted to medical school, so I felt Biomedical Science would be a good stepping stone into a medical career. Since studying at Sussex, I have decided that actually, being a doctor is not for me, and I now want to go in a different direction once I graduate.
Fortunately, my degree can lead me in so many different ways, from researching to teaching, to working behind the scenes in a hospital, to something completely unrelated. My course is varied, interesting and has also provided me with so many useful skills.
Why did you choose Sussex?
I chose to study at Sussex because it’s my local university. When I was at secondary school, I was involved in the AimHigher programme, and went on lots of campus visits here and participated in a summer school, where I had a great time! Before coming to university I took a gap year and spent the year working for the local council’s Youth Service. I felt this gave me a massive boost in confidence as I got used to working with people from all different backgrounds and ages. I also learnt new skills through presenting to local councillors and police officers and also being thrown into the unknown. If you are thinking about a gap year, I’d highly recommend it!
An important reason why I decided to study at Sussex was the style of teaching and the great community feeling that the campus offers. Not only that, but Sussex is internationally recognised for its research and I was also able to stay living at home, which saved me money and meant I could keep my part time jobs.
What's the best thing about university?
My favourite thing about university is getting a chance to study a subject that I find so interesting, along with about a hundred other people who all really like it too. You can learn from each other and make lots of new friends and I also absolutely love being a student ambassador!
Any advice?
My one piece of advice would be to go to lots of open days, it really is important! When I was applying to university I didn't look at anywhere else, other universities might suit you better than your local one! It’s all very dependent on your preferences and prospectuses don't always provide you with the full picture. It really is important to attend as many open days as you can to see if you can imagine spending at least 3 years of life there.
- Lauren, 3rd Year Media Practice and Theory
Why did you choose to study your subject?
I chose to study Media Practice and Theory because I’ve had a passion for the media ever since I was little.
I picked media as a GCSE and A Level option, as some of my favourite things to do are sit down and watch a good TV programme, or go to the cinema and watch upcoming films! When it came to choosing a course at university, media was the only subject I could see myself doing!
I enjoy learning what has influenced the media industry to be what it is today, and the events and people that have affected it. Being able to make my own projects improves my skills, which will help me fulfil my dream of working in Hollywood in the future!
Why did you choose Sussex?
I first visited the University of Sussex when I was in Year 8 due to being on a programme much alike Widening Participation. As soon as I set my eyes on the campus I knew Sussex was where I wanted to come in the future. This helped me set my goals and ambitions, making me work even harder in my exams.
I further visited three to four times and nothing has ever changed! There is always a great atmosphere about campus and the ambassadors that I had talked to always spoke highly of Sussex. I am also very local, but I didn't mind being close to home as I just love Brighton, so every box was ticked for me!
What's the best thing about university?
For me, the most enjoyable part of university is meeting lots of different people. Granted, I absolutely love my degree course, but on top of that the friendships I have built have really made my university experience. I now have many international friends and I plan to visit them all! I also share a house with people I feel I have known all my life!
I am part of the Sussex Music Live Society as I love listening to live music! My friends run it, so I love going to support them and watching the amazing things that they are doing. Also, I’m a student ambassador which has been an amazing experience in itself, giving me many skills and so much more confidence. I am given the chance to share my knowledge and empathise with students who I was in the same position as not so long ago!
- Luke, 3rd Year GAME (Game and Multimedia Environments)
Why did you choose to study your subject?
I chose to study GAME at Sussex because I have always had a passion for creative computer science for as long as I remember. I love playing and making video games, so this course was ideal for my needs.
In my course I have learnt how to code and gained skills in computer graphics design, which are skills that employers like to see. After I graduate I would like to work in the games industry developing the next blockbuster game!
Why did you choose Sussex?
In addition to how highly the university is ranked, I chose Sussex because it is a campus university, which is very comfortable to live and study in, and its only 10 minutes away from the city of Brighton. I am also able to go home during the weekends to see my family as I don't live too far away from my parent’s house.
What's the best thing about university?
I am an active member of the University of Sussex Ultimate Frisbee team (known as the Mohawks) which is a lot of fun! You get to meet great friends as well as keeping fit, while you are here at university. I would recommend joining a sport or society at university as it is a really good experience to have in terms of student life.
- Maria, 2nd Year Social Work
Why did you choose to study your subject?
Social work is an area that interested me since high achool and before coming to university I volunteered in a child’s shelter in Cyprus for two years. This reinforced my decision to study this subject further to make a difference in society by helping people who have been abused, abandoned and neglected. I also took a gap year and volunteered in a private multicultural primary school in Athens, Greece. This was a great opportunity to gain valuable experience, work with children, which is what I love, and also plenty of time to finalise my applications to university.
Why did you choose Sussex?
I am an international student from Cyprus but decided to come to Sussex because it has one of the best social work courses in the country and it is based in Brighton, a small city that I really like! It was also an opportunity for me to get out of my home country and explore new places. I love the University’s campus and how all the facilities (supermarket, buildings, bank, bus stops, train station, bars and coffee shops) are conveniently close together.
What's the best thing about university?
The best part of the campus is the library, which is really big and gives you plenty of opportunities to study and research topics you have never researched before. The University also offers a variety of programmes and training. I attended the Learning to Lead programme as it was a wonderful opportunity that otherwise would be very expensive to go to.
As the group in my social work classes have no more than forty people, this gives me the opportunity to communicate with everyone and form new friendships. There are different part-time job opportunities and different societies that you can also get involved with. I currently volunteer at a local organisation which helps homeless people during the winter months, further providing me with a great opportunity to gain experience for my course.
- Mollie, 2nd Year International Development and French
Why did you choose to study your subject?
I currently study a joint honours degree in International Development and French as I have always had a passion for how the world interacts on a global level between nation states and other international organisations, such as the United Nations.
I also love learning languages, especially when you are able to talk to people from other countries in their own language rather than our own. In particular, French is the language of diplomacy and this will be useful for my future career path.
I am hoping to work abroad for an organisation such as the United Nations or other NGO’s. I’m not entirely sure what exact path within the UN I would like to take yet but possibly related to women’s rights within society, changing perceptions and getting women into education.
Why did you choose Sussex?
My reasons for choosing Sussex were not simply for our beautiful campus that we are very fortunate to enjoy, but in my case the university is one of the best institutions in the country for studying Development Studies. This was a key factor in my decision making. Also, you cannot forget that Brighton is an amazing place to discover when you are not from this part of the country!
What's the best thing about university?
For me, the best part of university so far is all the new experiences that I am currently gaining and enjoying, especially since I wouldn't be able to experience them anywhere other than university. I am lucky to have met so many new people, and being able to study so specifically the subjects that I love.
- Neelam, 3rd Year Geography and International Development
Why did you choose to study your subject?
I chose to study Geography at school and college as I really enjoyed it, and could imagine studying it for another three years. I’m also very passionate about making a difference in the world, whether that be small or big, which made me want to study International Development at university.
Why did you choose Sussex?
Sussex is ranked highly for my subjects and the Institute of Development Studies is also situated on campus. They carry out world class research that we can access and utilise, which is an amazing experience. I didn't want to move far away from home (Midlands) to go to university, but I also didn’t want to turn down the opportunity to study at Sussex. I now appreciate the decision I made and can’t believe opportunities I’ve come across at Sussex.
When you visit a university you will instantly know whether you would be able to live there. I found when visiting some universities, I felt uncomfortable with the atmosphere and the surroundings also didn't appeal to me. When I visited Sussex, I instantly felt at home and now call Brighton my second home!
What's the best thing about university?
I joined the Sussex University Think Tank (SUTT) society, which is a group of people coming together to find solutions to world problems. It’s an exciting opportunity as once you have written about issues in articles they get published, so people can implement the changes you discussed. I’ve also joined the archery society, which I love to take part in during my free time.
- Rhiannon, 2nd Year Psychology with Legal Studies
Why did you choose to study your subject?
I chose Psychology with a Legal Studies elective pathway because I’ve always been fascinated with the reasons behind people’s behaviour, which can be influenced by both society and the law. Psychology is also such a broad and interesting degree that it leaves me with plenty of career options when I finish.
Why did you choose Sussex?
I’m from a local school and I’ve been coming to the University of Sussex with this programme since I was in Year 7. I’ve always loved the feel of the campus and before I even started here it already felt familiar, like home. I wanted to stay close to Brighton, a city I love, and be close enough to home to see my family regularly but far enough to maintain my independence. Sussex is the perfect fit.
What's the best thing about university?
I’ve found the support here invaluable, whether it’s personal, academic or related to careers; there is always someone here to help, who listens and doesn’t make you feel like a number. My best piece of advice is to try every club and society you like the sound of then stick to what you love. Also learn to cook a few things as it makes living a lot cheaper.
Recent graduates
Louise, Psychology with American Studies
Why did you choose to study your subject?
I chose to study Psychology with American Studies as I have always been a curious person and interested in observing and understanding human and animal behaviour. Psychology focuses on how the mind works and my degree has enabled me to witness psychology in various settings such as in schools, sports, at work, in groups and amongst animals.
Why did you choose Sussex?
I chose Sussex for its academic reputation (ranked 11th in the UK and 8th for Psychology, at the time). I visited on an open day and loved its beautiful surroundings and the vibrant city of Brighton. As London is less than an hour away, I was able to leave home but also remain close enough too, which has been extremely convenient.
What's the best thing about university?
I have held many roles whilst studying at Sussex including graduation assistant, Residential Advisor, summer school leader, student union events manager and the best of all… Student Ambassador! Working on campus has allowed me to develop a range of skills including communication, leadership, public-speaking and time-management. Being an active member on campus is also an excellent way to meet other students and share your experiences with them. When I entered university in 2010, I was EXTREMELY shy and quite reserved, but attaining these roles have definitely changed me as an individual and I do feel more confident in interacting with others, leading groups and presenting.
Despite an amazing time at Sussex, I can honestly say my study abroad in the USA has been the highlight and best year of my university life which was made possible through studying here at the University of Sussex.
Lyndsay, International Relations and Development
Why did you choose to study your subject?
I chose International Relations and Development because I was interested in working for a charity and doing something positive to put back into the community in general. I also wanted to learn more about the way the world works. I chose Sussex because of the excellent subject ranking, and for the cosmopolitan vibe of Brighton, and gorgeous Sussex countryside, with Stanmer Park a 2 minute walk away.
What's the best thing about university?
The best part of university for me has been the societies and clubs. I have set up and am captain of the university’s first cycling club. I also created a bike hire project that runs as a society out of the union, providing cheap recycled bikes to students. At university you have the freedom to take your hobby in whichever direction you want and meet the most incredible people, making great friends along the way. There is definitely a lot more to do than clubbing at university!
Life after university
After student rep'ping alongside WP work in my final year, I decided to run in the Students' Union elections in February, and am now your Activities Officer for 2014-15! This job entails looking after the Union's sports, societies and volunteering, but I also have lots of other roles such as taking part in campaigns.
The campaigns I am focusing on are our new I <3 Consent campaign that aims to tackle sexual harassment, the freshly launched Keep It Wheel campaign that aims to get as many people cycling to university as possible, and the outsourcing campaign that continues to strive for better conditions for the outsourced services' workers on our campus, such as the Living Wage.
I am also continuing WP work through plans for a national Role Models scheme, where WP and FGS students at Sussex can buddy up with a student either at Brighton Aldridge Community Academy or a college. Next year I plan to cycle around Europe for many, many months, but until then I am your Activities Officer, and if you have any queries about the Students' Union come and visit me in the Officer's Office in Falmer House.
Tausif, Law
Why did you choose to study your subject?
Law is a highly intellectually stimulating subject and the first step towards achieving my goal of pursuing a career at the Bar. I also believe the very nature of the subject, that if relentless research, critical analysis and to be able to look at a topic from various spectacles and perspectives brings the very best out of a student and helps attain a wide set of practical skills.
Why did you choose Sussex?
Being an international student and not having the opportunity to visit campuses first hand, was a much harder task for me when choosing my destination. Sussex’s worldwide reputation of having a lively and vibrant campus life in addition to its academic reputation really swayed my decision towards it. The university is in close proximity to London and Brighton’s tourist attractions, which were also important factors.
What's the best thing about university?
University has allowed me to gain independence and a new found self-responsibility that comes with living away from home. Learning to be independent at the same time as adjusting to university style learning was more daunting than expected. However, once you get a grip of it, it is full of memories and great experiences.
Life after university
Having spent an amazing three years full of memories, ups and downs, life experiences and lessons and most importantly achieving my Law degree I am about to commence my Bar Professional Training Course at Cardiff University. I am currently working as an intern at one of the top corporate legal firms back in my home country, something that I managed to achieve by obtaining a degree from one of the top universities in England.
My experiences subsequent to graduating has given me the realisation of the challenges that lie ahead, however, the underlying confidence that the lessons and experiences I gained during my three years at university will help me overcome the hurdles.