Graduation unsung hero: Louise Poole
Hear from colleagues who are taking time to contribute to graduation week, find out about their role and what they enjoy about it. It's a chance to see some of the work that goes on behind the scenes to help make graduation week a success.
Behind the scenes with...
Louise Poole
Student Records Assistant, Academic Office
Role at graduation: Box Office
My usual job involves...
maintaining accurate, up-to-date personal and course-related data held on the student records database for both undergraduate and taught postgraduate students, from the time they start their courses until they leave. I also provide policy advice and guidance to students and colleagues in academic departments concerning student records procedures.
During graduation week I...
assist in a number of different roles. This time I'm in the Foyer Box Office located in the Arts Centre, working with Catryn Hemlock from the Vice Chancellor's Office and Daniel Stephen, from the Awards & Ceremonies team. We're acting as the first port of call for students, guests and visitors for any queries they may have about Degree Congregation. This requires having a good overall knowledge of times for the ceremonies, parking, disabled access, robing, tickets, special and VIP guests, photos, refreshments, childcare, etc. The Foyer Box Office team also assist with students who have not previously registered, who have lost their tickets and who have arrived late. In essence we are the front line and fount of all knowledge!
I really enjoy being involved with...
meeting and working with different colleagues; also students and people from all walks of life and helping them with any queries they may have. I feel a tremendous sense of achievement in helping to ensure a student’s special day goes smoothly. Being in a prime location to watch the procession as it enters and leaves the Butterworth Hall is a real perk. I am fortunate to share in this celebration.
Graduation week is unique because...
of the atmosphere that is created working behind the scenes with different colleagues and the buzz on the day. It gives me the opportunity to experience various roles wearing different hats and helps to make someone's day an experience to remember. When I watch a ceremony I am very proud to be part of such a momentous occasion, a magnificent sense of pride in the University, my colleagues and the students for their successes and achievements culminating in a truly special occasion.
If I could change one thing about graduation it would be...
to have a flower stall in the Arts Centre that sells chocolates and flowers for the graduands.
Not everyone knows that...
an enormous amount of work and organisation goes on behind the scenes to make graduation a success, and preparation starts months beforehand. It is the hard work of people who work in the Awards and Ceremonies team, Exams Office, Student Records, Student Finance and academic departments that make it possible for students to receive their degrees. Without these people doing the ground work and what is required in advance there would be no degree ceremonies.
What would you say to colleagues considering getting involved?
I would encourage everyone to get involved at least once, wherever they work within the University. It is hard work, at times tiring - and exhilarating! For those doing seating or foyer work, sensible comfortable shoes are a must.
In three words, what invaluable tip or advice would you give graduands?
Embrace the experience!