After visiting the University of Reading at Open Days, Jasmine decided that Reading was the perfect fit for her. She is now a third-year BA Archaeology and History student, currently focusing on her dissertation about the representation of Mother Goddess figurines from the Neolithic Age.
“I attended several Open Days at Reading and both times I came away feeling like it would be the right place for me. The bone handling workshop in the osteology lab was a highlight for me – we were tasked with assembling a plastic human skeleton, and this was the first time I had ever had the opportunity to do something like this. The whole experience really helped me to picture myself studying here and made my decision really easy.”
The value of Academic Tutors
Reflecting on her first year at university, Jasmine appreciated the support and encouragement she received from her Academic Tutor.
“I found it really helpful to have a familiar face around the Department, especially in my first year when I didn’t really know any of the other lecturers.”
At the start of your first year, you are assigned an Academic Tutor whose role is to support you with your academic, personal and professional development throughout your time at university.
“It is compulsory to meet with your Academic Tutor at least once a term, but you can speak to them as often as you like. I quite often see mine on campus and so we have regular conversations throughout the whole year.
“The meetings are flexible and can be held online if it’s more convenient for you. You can discuss anything from university life to your current studies and your plans for the future.
“My Academic Tutor looks at my grades and asks how my studies are going, but also makes sure I am balancing it with socialising with friends.”
RUined student society
Jasmine maximised her university experience by joining the Department of Archaeology’s student society, RUined, and has proudly taken on the role of President during her final year. Her passion for helping others and bringing people in the Department together has been extremely rewarding.
“We hold events every week for our members, ranging from nights out to crafting and picnics. Additionally, we also hold study sessions to allow students from all years to provide help to those who may be doing similar work.
“Another part of our responsibility is to provide welfare support, whether it is directly from us or signposting individuals to the Student Welfare Team.
Being on the committee for RUined has been very rewarding. We have an important role to play in bringing students together. The field schools over the summer really helped us to do this.”