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The Graduate Ambassador programme matches recent University Southampton graduates with volunteering activities across the University community.
Graduate Ambassadors share their authentic story with students through activities like career talks, workshops, and mentoring. The volunteering programme gives our Graduate Ambassador the opportunity to stay connected with the University whilst receiving bespoke skills and career support.
The year’s cohort includes over 25 Graduate Ambassadors from a range of degree subjects and backgrounds, all of whom are recent graduates and are located in a commutable distance to Southampton.
Meet our current Graduate Ambassadors
Afsana Tamanna Uddin
LLB Law, 2024
I have recently graduated, and I am currently exploring my options and looking for both legal and non-legal opportunities. One quality that I possess which is beneficial for the role of Graduate Ambassador is my eagerness to speak to people and my love for the university.
Alex Brewster
BA English Language and Linguistics, 2023
Originally I went to a masters at another university which I didn't complete as I realised I could never work in the industry I was training for. Since then, I have been working in retail (which has only been possible after my part time job I worked whilst studying). I'm currently deep in the graduate job search which is difficult but it's great to see and find all the opportunities that are out there. I think my experience would be valuable to students who don't know where they are going after university.
Andy Yiu
MSc Business Analytics and Finance, 2022
Credit Risk Consultant at 4most
I am a credit risk professional with over 10 years of experience in the industry, currently working at 4most since graduating in 2022. My career has equipped me with valuable skills in machine learning applications, project management, and client relationship management. Additionally, I have a strong background in mentoring, having guided junior colleagues in their professional growth. I'm passionate about leveraging my experience to support UoS students in both their professional and personal development.
Deetchiga Soundherraj
MSc Data and Decision Analytics, 2024
Data Analyst Intern at BAREFOOT LIGHTNING LIMITED
Since graduating, I've developed strong skills in data visualization, analysis, and teamwork through roles such as data visualization and manipulation at the University of Southampton. I've gained experience with tools like Power BI, improved data quality processes, and collaborate across teams, all of which have prepared me to effectively engage and represent the university as a Graduate Ambassador.
Jess Boxall
BSc Biomedical Sciences with Year in Employment, MSc Public Health & Nutrition, 2024
Senior Research Assistant & Project Manager at the University of Southampton; CORE eCRF Data Analyst
Since graduating, I have continued to work at the University of Southampton within the Clinical Informatics Research Unit. I came on board as a Clinical Research Analyst Programmer, which entails building databases for clinical trials, data management, processing, and governance. We then prepare the data for analysis to be written up in journal papers! I also now work as a Global Health Senior Research Assistant, where my research interests are around public health, nutrition and public health – in line with the MSc Public Health & Nutrition I have just graduated from.
Most recently, I have been involved in projects exploring the impact of climate change on food security and health in rural Ghana, within which I have been able to travel to Ghana to meet our collaborative partners, present my research and understand the local context. It is an incredibly gratifying and always-exciting role! The communication and presentation skills I have gained from these roles are incredibly relevant to my role as a Graduate Ambassador, as well as my ability to adapt to different environments and navigate relationships with different stakeholders.
Jessica Swetha Catari Sankara Dares
MSc Business Analytics and Management Science, 2024
Data Analyst at Pro-Align
I had the opportunity to work as an intern for a clinic in Hampshire. This was during my course and I obtained it through the University careers portal.
As an international student who wanted to switch careers, I was able to learn a lot of skills, both technical and soft skills needed for my career. And exposure to various people was one of the skills I believe that would help me out in this role as an ambassador.
I am currently working as a data analyst for a car aligner distribution company.
Ka (Jenny) Ching Chung
MSc Digital Strategy and Information Systems, 2022
Periodic Review Analyst at Starling Bank
I graduated in 2022 and currently work at Starling Bank as a Periodic Review Analyst. In this role, I conduct in-depth investigations of business accounts, proactively identifying risks and trends, and sharing my findings with leadership. This experience has significantly strengthened my analytical and presentation skills, which I believe would be valuable as a Graduate Ambassador. I’m confident in my ability to assess students’ current situations and provide tailored career guidance, drawing from both my academic background and professional experience. Additionally, I’d love to connect with other alumni at events, where we can share insights and learn from one another.
Manisha Kumar
BSc Politics and International Relations, 2020, MSc Business Strategy and Innovation Management, 2021
Compliance Assistant at Saltus
My first full-time role after completing my bachelor's and master's degrees at the University of Southampton was with Lifestory, a property developer specializing in building retirement communities. I spent six months in the procurement team and an additional six months in the development team before being made redundant. Despite this setback, I learned the importance of tenacity and optimism—qualities I believe are essential for a Graduate Ambassador.
Four months later, I began my current role in Compliance within the financial services sector, where I am working towards earning my RQF Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning. In this role, I handle challenging conversations related to complaints, which has refined my communication, adaptability, and decision-making skills — attributes that are crucial for the role of a Graduate Ambassador.
Megan Janina Thorn
MSci Oceanography, 2024
Junior Hydrographic Surveyor at EGS international
Immediately after graduating I’ve gone on to be a junior hydrographic surveyor at EGS international! I am currently learning everything I can about the role to become a full hydrographic surveyor! Previously I had a role as a student course representative and a very big social network within NOCS and a passion for helping others so I’d love to get as many people into university and industry as possible!
Oana Alexandra Lazar
MEng Electronic Engineering with Industrial Studies, 2022
Embedded Software Engineer at Tessent Embedded Analytics
I'm an Embedded Software Engineer with Tessent Embedded Analytics, a subdivision of Siemens Electronic Design Automation. For the past two years, my role has involved enhancing a software development kit using C programming, to configure and control functional monitoring modules within embedded system-on-chips.
I previously completed a 12-month industrial placement with Tessent Embedded Analytics (formerly known as UltraSoC), while they sponsored my UK Electronics Skills Foundation (UKESF) Scholarship. Beyond the workplace, I pursue my passion for STEM outreach by sharing my experiences as a woman in tech at the UKESF "Girls into Electronics" workshops, being a live commentator for the annual Student Robotics competitions, and showcasing the 1929 "Toastrack" charabanc at the Southampton Science and Engineering Festival (SOTSEF).
Olivia Keegan Carr
MSci Archaeology, 2022
Assistant Collections Manager at The British Museum
Since graduating in 2022, I have worked as the Community Engagement Coordinator for Marble Hill House (English Heritage) between September 2022 and October 2023. I am skilled in organising and executing public outreach events, and I have experience communicating with a variety of audiences. Since December 2023, I have worked as an Assistant Collection Manager at the British Museum. I am therefore knowledgeable about different aspects of working in museums and heritage.
Priya Mohan
MA Design Management, 2023
Marketing and Communications Intern at The Luna Foundation
Since graduating, I have worked in various roles that have enhanced my skills in communications, marketing, and project coordination. Currently, I am a Marketing and Communications Intern at The Luna Foundation, where I develop and manage social media campaigns and assist in content creation. I have also gained valuable experience as a Project Coordinator at Hammersley Homes, where I organised events and managed volunteer teams, honing my organisational and leadership skills. These experiences have prepared me well for my role as a Graduate Ambassador, where I aim to leverage my skills to engage effectively with students and promote the programme.
Przemyslaw Ludwik Falak
PhD Optoelectronics, 2024
Research Fellow at Optoelectronics Research Centre
Upon completing my PhD in Optoelectronics in April 2024, I am continuing my academic career as Research Fellow in the Optoelectronics Research Centre at the University of Southampton, which is a world-leading research institute in the field of photonics and optics.
My research interests cover fabrication of the next generation optical sensing devices and combining AI with photonics to realise compact systems for chemical detection and structural health monitoring with applications in civil engineering, aerospace and deep sea exploration.
Since graduation in April 2024, I have been awarded Accredited Imaging Scientist qualification by the Royal Photographic Society (July 2024) and Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences Dean’s Award for exceptional contributions to the Faculty in the past year (July 2024). I am also a member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC), Committee member of the Printing and Graphics Science group with the Institute of Physics (MInstP) and Society of Photo-Instrumentation and Engineering (SPIE).
Rachael Mackett
MSc Foundations of Clinical Psychology, 2021
Trainee Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner at NHS Talking Therapies
After completing my postgraduate degree in Clinical Psychology in 2021, I took on a role as a Homeless Recovery Worker at Two Saints, supporting young people facing homelessness in Southampton. I worked here for two years before accepting the role of Assistant Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner at Solent Mind, primarily supporting patients with online CBT. I will be working as a Trainee Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner from September 2024 - which involves part-time study back at The University of Southampton for a year before becoming a Qualified PWP.
I have gained a lot of clinical experience in my roles as well as always improving my interpersonal skills, which is crucial to working in the Mental Health sector, as well as for being a Graduate Ambassador! I have also developed my critical thinking and reflective skills as well as my resilience - Lived experience of mental health struggles whilst at University and in the workplace and how to cope with this is a really important quality that I try to share with others.
Rachel Baylis
BSc Population and Geography, MSc Social Research Methods and Applied Statistics, 2021
Social Researcher at Department for Culture, Media and Sport
After graduating from Southampton I spent two years working on crime stats at the ONS. I now work on the Community Life Survey at DCMS which feels like a full circle moment given I based my masters dissertation on CLSdata!
Ruturaj Deorukhkar
MSc Business Analytics and Management Science, 2022
Business Analyst at UKSA
I hold an M.Sc. in Business Analytics and Management Science from the University of Southampton, graduating with Academic Distinction and earning a place on the Dean’s List in the academic year 2021 - 2022. Throughout my career, I have consistently led teams, optimized processes, improved client satisfaction, and delivered meaningful results across various roles, which I believe were key for me to be a part of this fabulous graduate ambassador program.
Samuel Ajayi
BA Film, 2019
Product Manager at Channel 4 Streaming; Founder at Film Finder
After graduating in Film at Southampton, I completed Sky's Business Strategy scheme where I specialised in Innovation (Sky Labs), Finance (Sky Store), Strategy (Sky Cinema), and Marketing (Sky Entertainment). I also worked across the film process for shows like 'The Crown' and 'Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story' to learn about the production side of things.
I'm currently a Product Manager at Channel 4 Streaming and a Founder at Film Finder.
Sean Firth
BA English and History, 2022
Trusts and Foundations Officer at Turn2us
After graduating from the University of Southampton, I worked for TechResort, a third sector organisation based in East Sussex whose aim was to tackle digital exclusion. I worked 1:1 with often vulnerable clients who were not only digitally excluded, but found themselves facing a number of socioeconomic barriers. I trained staff and volunteers, and generated income from statutory and charitable sources - which led me into my current position as a fundraiser at national anti-poverty charity Turn2us.
Sherif Usama Attia
BEng Electronic Engineering, 2022
Electromechanical Engineer and Lab Administrator at University of Southampton
My career expertise has revolved around sensing technology since I graduated. I currently work in the Mechanical Engineering Department as an Electromechanical Engineer and as a Lab Administrator. I formerly worked as a Research Assistant/Technician in the School of Electronics and Computer Science, developing sensor technology for monitoring glaciers in Iceland. It was also the year where my journey as a Graduate Ambassador had transpired. I have used my time as a Graduate Ambassador to engage with prospectus students and mentor final year undergraduates to seek their full potential and embark on journeys after concluding their academic chapters at the University of Southampton. I hope to further inspire and witness what our undergraduates are capable of achieving this year.
Shravan Bhatt
MSc Data Science, 2022
Business Analyst at LendingMetrics
I've had the experience working as a Business Analyst in both large corporations and small-to-medium enterprises. Over the years, I've not only developed a bunch of technical skills but also personal skills such as time management, planning, organization, accountability, ownership, self-motivation, resilience, and grit—essentially, getting things done and achieving goals.
Vivian (Wei) He
MSc Business Administration, 2024
Real Estate Marketing Administrator
Seasoned real estate marketing administrator with rich experience in developing and executing successful marketing plans for residential and commercial properties.
Demonstrated success in creating and managing brand awareness and generating leads.
Good at analyzing market dynamics, monitoring market data, and adjusting marketing strategies according to the actual situation to achieve the sales target of the project.
Will Barr
BSc Accounting and Finance with Employment Placement, 2024
Audit Trainee at BDO LLP
Since graduation, I have worked as an Audit Trainee at BDO LLP. I have experience with stakeholder management through effective communication between the audit team, and our audited entities. I also have developed strong time management skills which have allowed me to meet tight deadlines and maintain strong audit quality which is fundamental to the success of my responsibilities.
William Baker
BA Geography, 2024
Business Analyst at University of Southampton
I studied BA Geography at the University of Southampton, and my first proper work experience was as a student ambassador here. I've worked for several departments of the university, starting during my second year studying here, when I was a project management intern in iSolutions.
I then worked as a ResLife Assistant at Wessex Lane during my third year. After finishing my studies, I worked in Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise as a project assistant up until my graduation. I then went back to Residential Services to become an Accommodation Support Advisor for the 24/25 halls intake, and have now returned to iSolutions for a full time role as a Business Analyst, working to improve and develop student systems here at UoS. I also work in the Student Recruitment Events Team for open days and visit days, giving welcome talks and accommodation tours.
Wuyue Sun
MSc Sustainability, 2021
Graduate Energy Business Consultant at SSE plc
Since graduation, I have been pursuing my passion through working at UNEP and SSE. Currently in SSE’s 2-year graduate scheme with experience in renewable strategy building, M&A activities, stakeholder engagement, public speech writing, and sustainable legislation analysis.
Yiying Li
MSc Accounting and Finance, 2024
My career began with an internship in operations at Ctrip, where I was responsible for executing and optimizing several projects focused on enhancing user experience and managing customer feedback. Following my internship, I took on a role as a campus ambassador for various organizations, university’s Open Days. These positions allowed me to develop strong communication and organizational skills as I was tasked with promoting brand awareness, organizing events, and engaging with a diverse range of students. My ability to connect with students and convey important information effectively was significantly enhanced during this period.