After seven years at my institution, I realised my work had become somewhat mechanical. I came in, did what was expected, and that was it. I did not want to use the excuse anymore of having ‘no time’ to seek opportunities where I could invest time in myself professionally. This decision led me to pursue a PGCert in Administration, Management, and Leadership and eventually I decided to attend the AHEP 2024 conference.
Now, let me tell you, my anxiety tends to skyrocket whenever I am asked to introduce myself and explain my role. I mean, does anyone really have enough time to cover everything they do? Probably not! My initial expectations for the AHEP conference were intimidating, with loads of people in suits, using fancy jargon, and discussing broad HE sector topics that would leave me smiling and nodding without a clue.
But studying for the PGCert motivated me to step out of my comfort zone and engage with people beyond my small circle of colleagues. Knowing I was the only member of my team attending, I wanted to maximise the opportunity to connect with professionals outside my institution. I joined the buddy scheme, hoping I could cling to my paired buddy as a lifeline to meet new people. The experience pushed me to network, learn, and grow in ways I had not anticipated. It was not just about the conference; it was about taking proactive steps in my career development and embracing new challenges.
You know a conference is going to be good when you look at the agenda and there are several workshops you want to attend at the same time! Right up until the deadline to confirm what workshops to attend, I was constantly changing my choices. One of my key takeaways was having a sense of belonging amongst professionals from the same ethnicity and class background as me that made the biggest impact.
Seeing speakers like Professor Damien Page and the Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education Professional Services Panel inspired me to strive for more than just my 9 to 5 job. Witnessing colleagues address large audiences and reflect on issues I am not yet brave enough to discuss myself pushed me to aspire for greater achievements. But also “Thank God AI won’t take over my job,” thanks to Liam Earney’s session.
The workshops aimed at my professional development made this one of the best conferences I have attended. Despite the fear of feeling isolated I found everyone I met to be friendly, and everyone had something worthwhile to say. In a role where you are a “jack of all trades, but master of none” in a small team, it can feel quite isolating. Meeting colleagues in similar situations from outside my institution was a breath of fresh air and a comforting reminder that I am not alone in my experiences. It was a great reassurance to realise that others are navigating the same challenges.
I was fortunate enough to be buddied up with the lovely Chiara Singh and Marina Lewis. Taking that first step of being introduced was the hardest part, but once we got past that, there were no awkward silences. This experience boosted my confidence, making it easier to approach and introduce myself to others. Even if you have not built up that confidence yet, sharing your nerves with your buddy can be incredibly helpful. It is like having a partner who can back you up when you need a little encouragement.
What was pleasantly surprising was that through my buddy, I met another colleague who has become a lifelong friend (though I will not name them to avoid any embarrassment!).
The best advice I can give new participants is to have courage and jump in. As someone who has struggled with anxiety, I can honestly say that attending this conference was a decision I did not regret. The worry of meeting new people and networking was daunting, so a few things helped me: practicing how to introduce myself, mentioning which HEI I’m from and what I do, asking the other person how long they have been in the HE sector, and whether this was their first conference or what their experiences at previous conferences were like. These conversation starters were incredibly helpful.
It might seem obvious but create a LinkedIn profile! I only made one just before attending the conference. I looked up the panel and workshop leaders and connected with them, which is a great way to build your network if you are not confident about introducing yourself in person. The AHEP App was also the best idea I have known at a conference, if you have not had time to create a LinkedIn profile. And finally, join the Buddy Scheme! It can help you take that next step in getting to know people and create opportunities you might not have encountered otherwise.
Thanks to the positive experience, I am planning to attend the AHEP conference in 2025. Do not let workload stop you from attending, the work will be there when you get back, but these opportunities are valuable. Feel free to add me on LinkedIn and if you want a more informal conversation about attending the upcoming conference reach out!
This year’s conference title is: Is Higher Education, As We Know It, Sustainable?
In an era of rapid change and uncertainty, higher education stands at a pivotal crossroads. Institutions grapple with unprecedented challenges that question the very foundation of their existence. Political shifts, financial turbulence, and evolving societal expectations call us to rethink and reimagine the future of higher education. This conference poses a crucial question: Is higher education, as we know it, sustainable? Book your place now and enter the conversation.
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