Welcome to all our new and returning School of Computing (SOC) students! We thought this would be a fantastic opportunity to introduce you to your SOC Head of School, Janet Carter. Take a look at the interview below to find out more about Janet and their role at Kent.
Can you tell us a bit about your journey to becoming Head of School?
I was first appointed to teach the mathematical underpinnings of the subject, and then started teaching a final year module called Computing in the Classroom. I held several roles within the school before becoming head. My first admin role was Stage 1 Year Director, helping Stage 1 students to settle in and prepare for the rest of their degree; then Senior Tutor in charge of pastoral support for all students within the school; then Director of Education, overseeing all aspects of the degree courses and modules we teach, including leading on accreditation. Now I am Head of School, overseeing all students, staff, and activities within the school.
What are your top priorities for the school this academic year and why?
As always, my top priority is to provide the best experience we can for all our students whilst maintaining our research capabilities. Allowing staff the space to maintain their research leads to more cutting-edge and enthusiastic teaching that, in turn, leads to our graduates having the best possible start to their future careers.
What are you most proud of in your school, and are there any specific achievements?
I am proud of many things within the school. Two years ago, when we outgrew our old building, we moved to the Kennedy building, which has led to more space, better facilities, and more cohesion. I am proud to be able to say that I led the school through this transition smoothly.
What is the one thing that students might be surprised to learn about you?
I am also a Kent graduate.
Is there a student success story that has inspired you in your career as Head of School?
Every student succeeding in, or exceeding, their goals is a success story, but seeing students overcome obstacles in order to graduate always tugs at the heartstrings.
What one piece of advice would you give students during their time at University to maximise their academic success this year?
Students should know to take advantage of all the great social opportunities afforded to them as students, but they also need to do the work. The advice is to find out in advance what academic support is on offer, so it is easy to take advantage of it when you need it.