Student Counsellor Hazel tells us how she supports students to make positive life changes, shares what she’s grateful for in her role and talks about the importance of reconnecting with nature.

Hi Hazel! Can you tell us how you support students?

I provide a non-judgemental, confidential space for students to speak about how they’re feeling and work with them to help improve their situation.

When a student meets with me, I ask them what sort of changes they’d like to see or, if they don’t know, I’ll help them identify some changes. Based on those answers, I work with them to create an action plan. The purpose of the plan is to give the student a sense that things can change because, often, when they come to me, they’ve already tried so hard to do everything themselves, but they’re just get stuck in a rut.

Is there a limit to the number of sessions a student can have?

No, they can have as many as they like. The point of the sessions is the student decides if they need to come back, not us. The exception to that is where a student has a more serious ongoing issue and the best option is to offer them another appointment or to do a follow up to make sure they’re safe – it’s a flexible model centred on student needs.

What would you want students to know about the service?

First of all, there’s no shame in counselling or seeking support. If you had a toothache, you wouldn’t be expected to extract your own tooth. It’s the same with emotional challenges. If something is bothering you emotionally, please don’t sit and stew, come and speak to us. That’s what we’re here for.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

Oh, there’s lots of things! I suppose my absolute favourite is watching the students I support develop and grow. I always try to get to graduation because that’s like my little reward. I’ve seen them through all their tough times then I get to see them graduate – some with first-class honours – and I just feel so proud of them.

It’s also such a privilege to be invited into their inner world, especially when they’ve had a bad experience of trying to get other people to help them, or they’ve been minimised, dismissed or not taken seriously. For these students, it’s a big risk coming to yet another stranger and sharing their vulnerabilities.

What made you want to get into this role?

One of my first jobs was in manufacturing. It was ok, but it wasn’t very interesting, so I started volunteering with The Samaritans and that experience made me realise I wanted a career where I could help people. From there, I got a job with Childline, then trained as a counsellor.

I’ve since worked in different parts of the voluntary sector and completed family therapy training. Then I got my job at the University.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself

I think we underestimate the importance of connecting with nature. I live in the country and, when it’s a nice clear night I like to get outside with the dogs and just take in the moon and the stars with no other distractions. It’s great for my wellbeing and I would recommend it to anyone looking to clear their head.

Thanks for speaking to us Hazel!

The Student Services Hub brings lots of services together to help you resolve a range of queries through a single point of contact, easily access the services you need, and thrive during your studies. Find out more on the University of Stirling website.