Five minutes
DAN JACOBS WITH
Dan is the Student Experience Manager at MySurrey Hive, the new student support space on campus. He graduated from Surrey’s School of Psychology in 2014 and is the Head Coach of the junior badminton club at Surrey Sports Park.
Tell us about MySurrey Hive
MySurrey Hive is a new project for the University which was created with three main aims in mind: a place to be supported, to learn and to socialise. All our student support services now operate under one roof, ensuring that no matter the query, there is now just one place to start the journey. From here, it is then our responsibility to ensure we bring the right support team to the student, both physically and digitally.
In terms of the Hive being a place to learn, there is a variety of types of space — somewhere to study in small groups, collaborate on project work or get your head down for a bit. Finally, it is a place to socialise with friends — we wanted to ensure that taking some time out and being with friends is something that is taken seriously. During the exam period, we will be providing free teas, coffees and healthy snacks to encourage students to come and take five.
We have recently launched our new events programme, called Live@Hive,
which encourages staff and students to come together, learn from one another and explore current hot topics as one. We also welcome graduates – as part of the audience or as a speaker.
What has been the students’ reaction to it?
The feedback we have received has been amazing! Some initial results show that 100 per cent of our students’ experience in the Hive has been both helpful and enjoyable. Here are some direct quotes that have been sent in to us:
“I love the way it’s laid out with easy areas to study as a group, on your own, or socialise without having too much impact on other people.”
“Such a refreshing space on campus – modern, bright, relaxing and with easy access to the support services.”
“Amazing to have one space to receive all the support you need!”
What’s the best thing about your job?
I know it sounds cringey but I love being at the heart of something so different and student-centric. I feel very lucky to be in this role and it is safe to say that no two days are the same. From being a student at Surrey myself to now being in a position to try and positively shape the future of the student experience is a real privilege.
What three words would you use to describe the Hive?
Approachable, supportive and bees (there are so many bee references flying around).
When not running the Hive, what do you like to do?
I run my own junior badminton club at Surrey Sports Park as well as competing in their adult club. From training and playing there as a student, to then working in the Team Surrey team for a few years, the Sports Park is a place I spend a lot of time in and have come to love!
SURREY.AC.UK
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