Computer Science student, Jasmine Yamkum, describes the rewarding experience of being a Global Officer
Since starting the GOLD Programme, I set out a goal at the beginning of the programme to make a difference or contribution at the University of Kent. I am proud to say that I have definitely achieved my goal by being a part of this rewarding programme. Not only that I have immensely grown my leadership skills and confidence in working in new environments, especially in a global context.
In the Autumn term, we had a variety of sessions and discussions covering a range of topics with other global officers during our weekly sessions every Wednesday. This included themes of Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Intelligence, Event Management, Sustainability and Cultures. I particularly took interest in the themes of Leadership and Cultural Intelligence such as what it takes to be a good leader and the different types of leadership styles there are in working environments. Also learning how to adapt and work effectively in culturally diverse situations, I thought that was interesting that people cleverly change the way they work and can relate with people across a variety of cultural contexts.
The most memorable part of being a Global Officer was helping plan and help run the Global Hangout events throughout the whole academic year. Global Hangouts are in person events where there are fun interactive activities, food and music; it is a great opportunity to meet new people and socialise. Depending on the seasons or months we had different themes for each of the hangouts. Such as Guy Fawkes Night for November and Winter Global Hangout for December. (The picture attached is from our Winter Global Hangout which was lots of fun to run! I am the one in the pink jumper). The Worldfest Global Hangout was one of our biggest events and that was a very successful day. On the day, I help set up and took responsibility for one of the stations which was the chopsticks skittle challenge to test people chopstick skills, and it became very competitive amongst students and lecturers!
In general, I’m very thankful to be apart of this programme and believe I have grown as a global citizen. From these experiences there will be no doubt I will use my knowledge in cultural intelligence and my leadership skills to excel even further in my future endeavours. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with new people and getting to lead events that showcases different cultures as we as knowing that all of us Global Officers have shown the same passion and dedication in our contributions which has been gratifying to witness.
Thank you to everyone in the GOLD Programme and if you are reading this and are considering signing up, what are you waiting for?!