It’s coming up to a very exciting time! Over the next few weeks, our amazing student fundraising team will be taking to the phones to chat to Manchester alumni across the UK and USA.
This month, our amazing team of student fundraisers will be taking to the phones to chat to Manchester alumni just like you. They’ll update you on some of the amazing things that you and your fellow graduates have made possible. And they’ll explain how you can start or continue your support, now and in the future.
But the call isn’t just about asking for financial support. Our team of fundraisers are all students at Manchester. They love to hear the interesting stories, insights and advice from generations that studied before them. From halls of residence to memorable professors, societies to social events, our alumni might have more in common with our student fundraisers than they think!
Our wonderful team can’t wait to say ‘hello’. But before they do, why not meet them first?
Ria, BA Art History and French
Where are you from?
India
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I genuinely believe in our University community. Connecting with alumni for support isn’t just about funds; it’s about building meaningful relationships that can truly enhance the experiences of current and future students. I’m eager to play a part in strengthening these connections and contributing to a meaningful impact.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I’m most excited about the opportunity to connect with our incredible alumni community and hear their stories. Building relationships and working together to support our university is not only fulfilling but also a chance to contribute to the shared success and growth of our educational family.
Supriya, BSc Physics, Year 2
Where are you from?
Kolkata
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
Having been fortunate enough to receive financial scholarship from the University, I know the importance of what student fundraisers do and thus want to do my bit and help other students receive the higher education they deserve, despite the background they come from.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I am excited to talk to University of Manchester alumni and find out what they are doing since they graduated and hopefully be able to connect with people who have similar interests as me or are in careers I could possibly go into.
Janelle, MEng Civil and Structural Engineering, Year 4
Where are you from?
London
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I wanted to become a student fundraiser so that I could directly impact the lives of fellow students, the University and the broader community. My efforts would also contribute to positive change and push towards a common goal.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I am looking forward to meeting new people across the campus, both current affiliates and those who were previously connected to the University and seeing the impact of my work during the campaign this year.
Will, BSc Management (Accounting and Finance), Year 4
Where are you from?
Greater Manchester
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I wanted to become a student fundraiser to contribute towards two of the reasons The University of Manchester is so unique. The first-class research that takes place here and the inclusivity of the University, contributed to by the necessary funding provided to students.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I am looking forward to speaking to the alumni to see what their career paths have been after leaving university.
Bella, BA History, Year 3
Where are you from?
London
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I wanted to become a student fundraiser to bring the issues facing the University to the fore. From supporting students with the cost-of-living crisis to helping expand research teams at the University, I want to help out in any way I can.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I am most excited to chat to the alumni. To get some insight into their experiences and speak to a variety of people is a really special opportunity.
Thea, BASS Social Anthropology and Sociology, Year 3
Where are you from?
South London
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
Why I wanted to be a fundraiser: As a part of The University of Manchester community, I have greatly benefited from the people I have met here, the experiences I have had. I hope to help enable others to experience the same things I have while getting a great education.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
As well as helping out future students, I also look forward to speaking to graduate students from the University to learn about their experiences at and after university.
Blessing, MBChB Medicine, Year 2
Where are you from?
South London
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I wanted to be a student fundraiser because it’s an exciting opportunity to make a difference, support causes that I care about and contribute to something meaningful within my community. Overall, it’s a fulfilling way for me to make an impact while at university.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I am most looking forward to connecting with alumni and seeing how their lives have changed since graduating from the University.
Chirag, BSc Management (Accounting and Finance), Year 2
Where are you from?
New Delhi
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I want to become a fundraiser and I want to indirectly support many of those who can’t afford education at an institution like The University of Manchester. This is a great way to gain experience and focus on my personal growth by building confidence and communication skills.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I’m really looking forward to making a positive impact and strengthening relationships with donors, volunteers and other community members.
Denise, BSocSc Social Anthropology, Year 3
Where are you from?
East Midlands
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
The University of Manchester wants to ensure that great minds can study here regardless of your background. I wanted to be able to support and bridge the gap for students to help them succeed in whichever way aligns with their dreams!
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I am excited to be part a team of like-minded individuals! As well as a chance to connect with alumni!
Adra, BSc Psychology, Year 3
Where are you from?
Manchester
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I want to become a student fundraiser because I want to be part of a team that makes a real difference and provides essential financial support to students during their time at university. I also like talking to other people, and hearing their stories, and found that this role was the perfect fit.
Ayah, MBChB Medicine, Year 4
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I wanted to become a student fundraiser because I believe in the power of education to change lives, and I’m incredibly passionate about supporting that cause.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
What excites me the most about being a student fundraiser is the opportunity to make a real impact, raise funds for important initiatives, and contribute to the educational journey of others. It’s a chance to be part of something bigger, and I can’t wait to see the positive change we can create together!
Pagan, BA Ancient History and History, Year 3
Where are you from?
Cambridgeshire
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
As a student who receives a bursary, I can understand how much of a positive impact it can have on your studies; therefore I would like to be a part of helping other people from similar backgrounds as me, in getting the opportunity to be the most successful student they can be.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
Chatting to graduates and finding out where life has taken them after Manchester.
Kristen, LLB Law
Where are you from?
Preston
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I became a student fundraiser in my first year in order to help those who aren’t able to fully finance going to, or continuing to study at university, and the fundraising team have had made massive progress last year in achieving that.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I had a lot of fun last year connecting with alumni and hearing about their experiences as well as bonding with the rest of the fundraising team, and I’m looking forward to doing that in future campaigns too!
Ruby, BSc Psychology
Where are you from?
Bristol
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I wanted to become a student fundraiser to make a true difference to students at Manchester, and allowing people to come and study here regardless of their background.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
Speaking to alumni and finding out their different experiences at Manchester!
Yolanda, MChem Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry, Year 2
Where are you from?
Manchester. Been here for ages.
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
During my gap year I worked in a similar job, fundraising for some of the biggest charities in the UK like Alzheimers Research. I absolutely loved it. It felt like I was making a difference and that’s the same thing I want to do here! The money raised goes towards scholarships, research and I think most importantly helping students. Also being someone who has benefitted from the funding provided, I can whole heartedly say it makes a difference. In a way, this is me giving back to the University. Meeting new people and connecting with them whether that’s with current students or previous ones.
Emman
Where are you from?
I am from Oldham.
Why did you want to be a student fundraiser?
I loved the idea of having a job within the University and getting training for lots of amazing transferable skills.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I’m looking forward to the friendly atmosphere of the call room, and to speak to alumni who graduated from my course! A lot of them give amazing advice and love to have a chat.
Tarunima
Where are you from?
India
Why did you want to be a student fundraiser?
I wanted to be a student fundraiser as I believe the opportunity would allow me to develop my communication skills and build my confidence, while contributing to raising funds to support students and invaluable research at the university.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I look forward to working with my fellow fundraisers and supervisor, and learning from this experience.
Annabel, BA English Literature and Spanish
Where are you from?
Oxford
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
To get involved with the University in a new way and be a part of something that can give opportunity to others.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
I am most looking forward to getting to the opportunity to connect with Manchester alumni and the team I will be working alongside.
Sarah
Hi, I’m Sarah, I’m from Luton. For the past four years I have lived in Manchester as a full time student and have had an amazing time. I wanted to be a student fundraiser because I think that everyone should have access to everything the University has to offer and that finances shouldn’t be a barrier. I am looking forward to hearing from alumni about their time at Manchester and what they enjoyed most.
Uditi, BSc Data Science
Where are you from?
I’m from New Delhi, India!
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I have always felt compelled to contribute my efforts toward creating equal opportunities for all students. I believe that access to education should not be hindered by financial barriers. This is why I chose to become a student fundraiser. My goal is to help gather resources that can be transformed into scholarships, research grants, and improved facilities. By doing this, I hope to play a part in ensuring that every student has the chance to excel, chase their dreams, and contribute positively to our society.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
Being a student fundraiser fills me with excitement. The most exhilarating aspect for me is the chance to engage with our alumni network. Their stories, experiences, and generosity inspire me. It’s a privilege to be part of a charitable campaign that not only aids in financial gathering but also strengthens the bonds within our educational community.
Sky, BDS Dentistry
Where you are from?
Originally from London but grew up in Singapore
Why did you want to become a student fundraiser?
I thought that it would be a good chance to strengthen my connections within the University community where I will get a chance to communicate with alumni that I would not meet otherwise. I also believe that everyone deserves access to education regardless of their financial circumstances and by being a student fundraiser, I will be contributing to this cause.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a student fundraiser?
Talking to and connecting with alumni!