At uea(su) we’re working with the university to tackle the degree awarding gap and other issues which affect students of colour.
What is the degree awarding gap?
In the UK in 2019-20, there was a 9.9% 'gap’ between the likelihood of white students and students of colour getting a 1st or a 2:1 degree classification. Some factors that contribute to the degree awarding gap include:
- Institutional culture
- A lack of ethnic diversity among role models and staff
- A lack of inclusive content, design and delivery
- Not feeling a sense of belonging
We believe this is wrong and we're making it a priority to work with UEA to address it. It is vital that students of colour voices are not only heard but listened to. Our paid Students of Colour Ambassador scheme recruit students of colour to ensure the lived experiences are at the centre of efforts to close the degree awarding gap.
If you have any questions about the scheme, please contact soca@uea.ac.uk.
Getting involved
Interested in getting involved? We're recruiting! At uea(su) we’re working with UEA to tackle the degree awarding gap that continues to affect students from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. We are looking to recruit paid Students of Colour Ambassadors, to make sure that the lived experience of students of colour is at the centre of efforts to close the degree awarding gap.
This role is exclusively for students at UEA, and will add invaluable experience to your CV. Key areas where you'll gain experience include:
- Project management in an equality and equity sector
- Championing the voices of students from minority ethnic groups
- Collaborative working with the university to conduct research
- Development, promotion and delivery of events
- Attending regular uea(su), school and university level meetings
If this sounds like the kind of challenge you're looking for, we'd love to hear from you!
What does a Students of Colour Ambassador do?
Working hours: Up to six hours per week during term time.
Students of Colour Ambassadors will work on projects which are decided by the academic school, however there is the opportunity to shape the projects that are being worked on. This role is focused on students of colour, so it is important that the Students of Colour Ambassadors work with students and staff. The Student of Colour Ambassador role is varied and will help you gain a range of transferable skills for future employment, some of the duties carried out are:
- Undertaking research
- Attending meetings
- Public speaking
- Creating and organising events
- Creating publicity (including the use of social media)
- And other tasks.
This role is supported by the Student Voice and Communities Coordinator (Students of Colour) on the Union side, who will provide training and general support. The School Lead on the University side will work with the Ambassador on projects and offer support.
What's on?
Your current SOCAs
Pharmacy
Amarachi
Priorities
As a Student of Colour Ambassador for the School of Pharmacy, I’m focused on creating more learning opportunities for students to really develop and break into the world of pharma. I plan to organise workshops, bring in key speakers, and offer practical insights into the industry. Alongside this, I want to create a warm and welcoming space for students of colour through sports and fun activities, while involving members of staff to build a mutual bond and understanding between students and faculty, ensuring everyone feels supported and included.
Fun fact
I am obsessed with Ben 10 AF & UA; I began playing the piano at age 7 & I was a part of a dance academy.
Contact me
sqt22fnu@uea.ac.uk
Merveille
Priorities
TBC
Fun fact
TBC
Contact me
TBC
Health Sciences
Nathan
Priorities
TBC
Fun fact
TBC
Contact me
TBC
Shantee (Shan) Crosdale
Priorities
Creating an inclusive environment for all people of colour
Fun fact
I play bass and piano
Contact me
s.crosdale@uea.ac.uk
Literature, Drama and Creative Writing
Elias
Priorities
For artists and creatives of colour to collaborate and express their talents! Continue to decolonise the curriculum.
Fun fact
I'm a musician! I'm a rapper, producer/songwriter, come work with me!
Contact me
e.daryani@uea.ac.uk
Dhara
Priorities
Creating a welcoming community in LDC for writers and readers of colour- a safe space to share your creativity and inspiration and feel empowered! Collaborate on and deliver lots of fun events for all cultures.
Fun fact
I'm the Vice President for the UEA Taekwondo club!
Contact me
fwe23ufu@uea.ac.uk
Biology
Noosha
Priorities
I am here to provide advocacy and support to students and create a safe and welcoming environment in the School of Biology. Whether it's to voice concerns, collaborate on projects, find the best coffee spots on campus, or just have a chat, I'm your person!
Fun fact
I've been playing the piano since I was 7, and I like to try every sport at least once (even though it hurts my soul that I’m not good at them after the first try)!
Contact me
n.yasrebi@uea.ac.uk
Izie
Priorities
I'm here to create an inclusive, supportive space for everyone, making sure everyone feels at home. Let's make this an amazing year together!
Fun fact
TBC
Contact me
TBC
Law
Saanchi
Priorities
I would like to create a more comfortable space for people of colour in the Law School, as well as help break down the barriers for people of colour advancing into the legal field.
Fun fact
I am a huge motorsports fan, particularly F1 (Formula 1) and I am first and foremost a Ferrari Fan.
Contact me
s.chetal@uea.ac.uk
Aura
Priorities
TBC
Fun fact
TBC
Contact me
TBC
Global Development
Tsukine
Priorities
Creating a warm community in DEV where students of colour can feel safe, as well as collaborating with other schools.
Fun fact
My name means 'sound of the moon.'
Contact me
t.teranishi@uea.ac.uk