Anna Derevyagina is the new Student Experience Assistant based at Kent Business School Medway. In her blog, Anna tells you a little about herself and how she can support you through your studies.
Introduce yourself
Hi, I’m Anna and I am the new Student Experience Assistant at Kent Business School, Medway. I was born and raised in Moscow, Russia. I came to the UK at the age of 13 to study at a boarding school, where I achieved most of my qualifications. I secured my place at Kent Business School at the age of 17 to study Business and Management with a Year in Industry, as I was specifically looking for a course with a placement year.
Describe your new role
As a Student Experience Assistant, I make sure that the students are engaged and happy with the University and the opportunities that are provided to them. I work closely with the Student Support and Engagement team to make sure that students get the best experience at KBS Medway. In addition, I will be working with the Marketing team to improve our communication channels across Medway.
How can students contact you?
I am mostly based on Medway Campus, within the Student Office at the Sail and Colour Loft. I work from Canterbury every Monday to support the KBS Marketing team. Students can email me on A.N.Derevyagina@kent.ac.uk or come with their enquiries to the reception desk at Medway. My office hours are Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 17:00 and on Friday 8:00 to 16:00 both term time and vacation.
What are you looking to get out of your Year in Industry?
Previously it was a little bit difficult for me to approach people and start making conversations with them. I always felt a bit shy and nervous about that. Just four weeks into my placement I already feel that I am overcoming this with my confidence increasing. It might be because everyone in the office is being so friendly and welcoming, as well as the KBS community accepting you for who you are.
What’s the best thing about studying here?
Living in the UK by myself without my family or relatives, I enjoy the sense of community that is provided by Kent Business School. Everyone around is very sympathetic and supportive, which really builds up the confidence in my studies and helps my social life.
What do you hope to do after you complete your studies?
I haven’t locked down on anything specific but so far I have several inspirations about what I want to do in my future life. I enjoy engaging with people through social media platforms, so it would be a great pleasure to work in digital marketing. One of my hobbies that I would like to convert into a professional career is online gaming and becoming a professional gamer or caster. I have met many wonderful people all across the globe due to that hobby and I want continue to improving at it.
What advice would you give to first-year students?
Make sure you use all the help provided to you by the University. Sometimes students who come from school may experience a slight shock about the difference in teaching between schools and universities. In addition, after you finish university, you are most likely to start looking for a job. Having this in mind, the students need to be aware of all of the services provided by the University in terms of academic help, support and well-being and placements guidance. Using this help students are more likely to achieve higher grades and get their dream job!
Many thanks to Anna for sharing her thoughts. Students are welcome to contact Anna for advice and guidance. Read Anna’s staff profile.