Session 64: “If I only knew then what I know now”. Listening to the voices of departing students

Abstract

Within the Faculty of Arts, Professional and Social Studies, the Student Experience Team has been actively listening to and engaging with the Student Voice. Two research projects, both focussing on the experiences of final year students, demonstrate how reflection can inform and enrich not only the experience of leavers but also of subsequent cohorts.
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At enrolment we promote the message to new students that engagement is a pre-requisite of their success. There is no more compelling narrative with which to inform new students than through the experience of former students who previously ‘wore their shoes’. The APS Student Experience Team has commissioned final year undergraduate students to run a research project to capture the reflections of 2024 leavers on the question of what advice they would give to their ‘former selves’ about their engagement with the University. In this session we will summarise the outcomes of the research project via a discussion of prevailing themes and consider how best to use this material in scaffolding support and advice for new students.

Following this we will be showcasing the findings of a survey of LJMU graduates who experienced an international trip as part of their time at LJMU. The respondents are reflecting on how they benefitted in terms of their career journey since graduating by assessing to what extent they were able to develop ‘Graduate Skills and Attributes’ during their international experience. They are also evaluating the activities they took part in to prepare for international experience, and the Guidance and Support that they received from LJMU. The purpose of this is to help LJMU academic and professional service staff to improve the provision of preparatory activities and to tailor the support that is given to individual students.

“If I only knew then what I know now”. Listening to the voices of departing students & Developing Global Citizens ​Insights from LJMU Graduates PowerPoints. Only LJMU staff and students have access to this resource.