Assistant Student Advisor Ross tells us how he supports students to effectively manage money, shares how a personal experience encouraged him to apply for his role, and talks about recently celebrating his 8th birthday.
Hi Ross! Tell us about your role and how you support students.
There’s a few ways I support students. I meet with them to chat through their financial circumstances and to let them know which of our discretionary and assistance funds they are eligible for.
I also help students who are applying for our discretionary and assistance funds by talking them through the application process, letting them know what evidence they need to provide, and assessing their application.
Alongside other members of my team, I keep the money support pages on our website updated. The guides on the website cover things like the cost-of-living crisis, sources of income students can consider while they’re studying, and how to budget. If students haven’t already, they should have a look at the web pages.
Another part of my role involves getting involved with campaigns to promote our services to students and raise awareness of important issues affecting students.
How did you get into this role?
I come from a financial background and worked in the finance sector for a number of years, but I wanted a change from that target-driven environment.
I went through a hard time with my finances when I was younger, and that had a big impact on my wellbeing at the time. When I saw this role, it really spoke to me as I wanted to use my knowledge and experience to help students. I’m so glad I applied; this is the best job I’ve ever had.
What is your favourite part of your job?
I really like meeting with students, whether that’s through appointments or when I’m at campus events.
Working in Student Support Services also gives me a lot of opportunities to get involved with things outside my role too, like graduations, open days and other events on campus. That’s a lot of fun.
What do you want students to know about the service?
That we’re always here to support them. If we can’t offer funds, we’ll talk you through the other ways we can help.
Can you tell me a fun fact about yourself?
I’m a leap year baby, which means my official birthday only happens every four years. I just had my 8th birthday in February there. It wasn’t a milestone birthday but I thought I’d have a party for it, because why not? It’s a rare occasion!
Thanks for speaking to us Ross!
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.