Humans of Warwick

Professor Mark Williams

WMG

“Using the technology we have here, I've helped on over 400 Police investigations."

“I never expected to be at the forefront of X-ray CT or 3D scanning. In fact, I remember saying when the first CAD machines came out that it wouldn’t take off. How wrong was I?

I wasn’t the most academic at school, and didn’t do my A-levels. I went down a different path and straight into an apprenticeship as an engineering technician. I was a draughtsman, in a room with about a hundred others, working on these big draught boards and paper. So maybe it was inevitable that I moved from 2D to 3D!

I’ve been at Warwick for 22 years and with the capabilities we have here, we really do get involved with everything and anything. The bulk of what we do at WMG is automotive and aerospace, but we’ve also diversified into health care, looking at surgical implants and scanning human movements. We work with museums as well, creating replicas of rare artefacts so they can be handled. That can be the skull of a dodo or the death mask of the last woman hung in Coventry!

I suppose what most people are interested in is the police work though. I can’t really go into too much detail on those for obvious reasons. What I can say is that the work is incredibly challenging and high pressured but also very rewarding. I was really pleased to receive the Chief Constable award from West Midlands Police for the groundbreaking work we’d done with them with our 3D printing and scanning technology. It was confirmation that we’re making a difference and justified all the hard work that we do to establish the truth.

I used to be a big fan of the real crime programmes on TV but now working so closely in the field I don’t tend to watch them as much. Ironically you can find me on them now, I’ve been on both Expert Witness and Forensics: The Real CSI, they’re oniPlayer and they’ll give you an insight into the forensics that we do here. Give them a watch and if you want to know anymore, please ask.

I’m lucky, I work with a great team and have some amazing colleagues from across the University. I know it’s a bit of a cliché, but no two days are the same. You can be working on the next generation of cars and aircraft or visiting a museum to look at a rare exhibit one day and giving evidence in a murder trial the next! It really is as diverse as that.

Outside of the University I like to switch off with a good book on military history. I know that doesn’t sound very relaxing but it’s something I’ve always had an interest in. I also really enjoy classic cinema and settling down in front of a black and white movie.”

Who's next?

Come back soon to find out who the next Human of Warwick is!

Steve Williams

University Glassblower

“I want to pass these skills on, I don't want them to be lost.”

“I always get asked how I got to be a glassblower as it’s such an unusual role. It goes all the way back to when I was at school, I was on study leave for my exams and started looking in the paper for a job, that’s how you used to have to do it in those days.

There was an advert for a trainee glassblower. The two guys who ran the business had been glassblowers at Aston University but started their own business. I was very practical and liked constructing things, so I went along and was taken on. I also had to make the tea and do the sandwich run but it was the best decision I made. I stayed there for 10 years, learning the skills that have got me to where I am now.

I’ve been a glassblower for around 40 years. It really is a unique and rewarding role and I’ve been lucky to have a job that I’ve enjoyed for so long. It’s also quite therapeutic at times.

Everything I make is bespoke, test tubes and common bits of glassware are mass produced, I make the things that you can’t buy off the shelf. If there’s a specific bit of glassware that’s needed for an experiment, something intricate or complex then I’m your man. I’m not perfect, it’s such a volatile material and mistakes do happen! The great thing with that though is I’m always recycling, if I make something and it gets broken, I can mend it. I like to think I’m doing my bit for the planet.

It’s not all scientific-equipment, I’ve made loads of different things over the years. I’ve made some gifts for the late author Terry Pratchett, a glass head housing two brains for the former Minister of Education, cocktail glasses for a Michelin Star restaurant. The most unusual thing I’ve created out of glass would be the internal organs of the human body, including the rib cage, this was showcased at the ‘Think Tank Museum’ in Birmingham. I’ve made various awards and souvenirs for staff and colleagues over the years. Most recently, I made a glass ‘yogi’ holding the University logo (a purple ‘W’) for a mindfulness event on campus. Send me a commission and I’ll see if I can make it!

Theres probably only around 20 university glassblowers up and down the country, so it really is a dying trade, but those skills are still needed. I’d love to be able to pass all my knowledge onto someone younger to keep the traditions alive. It would be a shame to see the art disappear completely, robots and AI wouldn’t be able to replicate what we do here. I doubt whether machinery can sculpt and create some of the detailed intricate pieces that I get commissioned to do!

If you want to know more or have a look at some of the things I’ve made, just let me know. It’d be a pleasure to show you what goes into it, I think you’d be surprised what you can do with glass, and you never know, you could be my next apprentice.”

Who's next?

Come back soon to find out who the next Human of Warwick is!

Professor Elena Riva

Head of Academic Department, Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning

“I ended up marrying the first British person I spoke to!”

“I met my husband at the University of Birmingham train station on my very first day in the United Kingdom, back in 2009.

I had just arrived from Italy for a one-month research visit, part of a project between the University of Milan, where I was doing my PhD in Chemistry, and the University of Birmingham. I asked a kind-looking stranger for directions to the city centre.

That stranger turned out to be my future husband. After completing my PhD in Italy, I moved back to the UK in 2011, for love. Alex was based here and could not relocate due to his work running a restaurant. What started as a short academic visit ended up shaping both my personal and professional life.

We now have three wonderful boys, and combining family life with an academic career has been a deeply fulfilling journey, though not without its difficulties. For women in particular, the expectations can be intense, and the systems slow to adapt. I am often asked—by both men and women, “How do you manage it?” The honest answer is joyfully, but not without challenges.

Since joining the University of Warwick, I have felt genuinely supported. I have met many like-minded colleagues who helped me find the right path when I could not see one myself. When I went on maternity leave, I was fortunate to have colleagues who stayed in touch, championed my work in my absence, and helped me remain connected to the academic community. That kind of support is rare, and it made a real difference.

After my first maternity leave, I returned to the lab with a six-month-old baby and quickly realised that the long, demanding research days were no longer sustainable. The Institute for Advanced Studies (IAS), which funded my postdoctoral fellowship, was incredibly supportive. In agreement with the Department of Chemistry, they allowed me to split the role between research and teaching. That flexibility changed everything—I truly don’t think I would have stayed in academia without it. Additionally, it allowed me to really explore teaching, and in the process, I discovered a real passion for education. That eventually led me to the Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning (IATL), and it has shaped the direction of my career in pedagogic research.

Most of my family life has been as a member of IATL, which has been much more than a workplace, it has been a space of care, flexibility, and support. A real example of how academia can adapt to and value the needs of carers.

Sometimes, a simple question asked on a train platform can change your life in unimaginable ways. What began as a request for directions became the start of a journey across countries, disciplines, and milestones guided, quite simply, by love.”

Dr Steven Servin

Flow Cytometry Specialist, Life Sciences

“As a kid I was really into science fiction, and now I get to work with lasers. It’s a dream come true!”

“Star Wars, Star Trek, Alien, I watched and loved them all! It was a great escape from reality or maybe even a glimpse into the future.

This passion for sci-fi and discovering things led me to study Biology. Which then brought me to Warwick to do my PhD. Leaving sunny Mexico for the beautiful English weather! My first accommodation was in Warwick, the town, I didn’t know then that the University was actually in Coventry. I commuted by bus for a year, I got used to it but now live a lot closer.

Throughout my career I’ve extensively used Flow Cytometry, a technology that I find truly fascinating. It’s remarkably versatile and can be used across various research areas. And, I’ve already said it but, who wouldn’t want to work with lasers!

On a typical day in the lab, I might work with at least two different branches of the tree of life. You need a solid understanding of the biology behind each experiment and the ability to adapt the technology. That really keeps the job consistently exciting and engaging. And remember, if you come into my lab, don’t lick the surfaces! I have had to remind people of that at times.

Creativity and out-of-the-box thinking are indispensable in my job. I want to be so good at it that one day the men in black roll onto campus and they say to me ‘Dr Steve, we need you to come and analyse alien life’. Yeah, I’m a believer!

I’ve been at the University for eight years and I really love the diversity here. There are so many people from so many different places. But the problem is, we don’t know anything about each other. Which is why I’m co-lead of the School of Life Sciences Race and Ethnicity Task Force. We’re committed to promoting awareness of ethnic issues. Creating a welcoming environment for everyone in the SLS community. As a Mexican in a foreign country, that’s very important to me.

I’m also a big fan of jazz music. I’ve got a couple of harmonicas hidden across campus, but my favourite place to play is under the willow tree near my lab. You may have heard me playing in the distance, sorry if you have, I need to practice more!”

Hasina Ismail

PA & Team Administrator

“Marriage brought me to Coventry and my very first job at the University.”

“I grew up in South London, my family and a lot of friends are still there. I was straight out of college and my job interview at WMG was my very first one. Working for Lord Bhattacharyya, then Professor Bhattacharyya, was my first job. A job that I loved and did for 26 years.

Working with Lord Bhattacharyya had its challenges. He was very demanding, but also a visionary and four steps ahead of everyone else. Being part of his gate keeping team, if you saw my name ringing on your phone, you’d answer it, was an absolute privilege. Discretion, total confidentiality and diplomacy was a vital part of the job.

He left behind an extraordinary legacy, and the NAIC building stands as a lasting testament to his vision and impact. When the road and the building were named in his honour, he was visibly moved and there was a tear in his eye. Sadly, he didn’t live to see the building officially opened by Prince Charles, now His Majesty the King. When he was awarded his peerage, he made a point of bringing with him the people who had supported him throughout his journey. Chefs, estates staff, technicians everyone who played a role. We all went down for afternoon tea at the House of Commons, it was a day I will never forget.

I stayed on the journey with him right until the day he passed. I met people from academia, industry and governments from around the world and had the chance to do and see some amazing things. A big highlight was when the President of India came, I served him a Masala Dosa that we’d specially made for him. There are so many stories, some you would not believe to be true, and some still confidential!

More recently, I had the privilege of working in the Vice Chancellor’s office. It was a chance for a new beginning. This continued to be an exciting experience and an opportunity to engage with the wider Warwick community. There is a huge university out there and so much still to learn. I’m currently on secondment in the Regional Partnerships Team. When the opportunity came up, I grabbed the chance to experience what it was like to work outside the Executive office. I’m not disappointed, no two days are the same. This is the beauty of the university it allows you the opportunity to move and not stand still. Even after all these years I’m always learning.

Warwick has become my story. It’s given me the opportunity to grow and become who I am today. I grew up here, became part of the community, and made it my home with my husband and my three children. I love being part of it.”

Ciara O'Leary

Climbing Wall Duty Manager, Sports and Wellness Hub

“Climbing has completely changed my life, I’m so pleased that I get to do it so often.”

“I started climbing around eight years ago and have been working in the climbing centre here for four years. You could say it’s my dream job! My first role here was to work with the Bear Cubs. Holding fun and safe climbing sessions for kids from as young as seven. Helping them all reach new heights!

I’m now one of the climbing wall duty managers. I like working with the beginner climbers providing some coaching, explaining how the centre works and the different walls available to them. I also look after the school groups when they come in, helping with the route setting and giving them the full safety briefing. I’m a good motivator, I’ll encourage anyone to get involved.

I’d recommend climbing to everyone. It’s so easy to get started, especially here. You don’t need any equipment or prior knowledge, and someone will always be on hand to answer any questions you have. There are 144 routes to the top of the climbing wall, we change them regularly so there’s always a new challenge. You can learn how to climb your own way, top rope, lead, bouldering or speed. And if you want to know what all of those mean, then you’ll have to come and have a go. We’ll teach you to climb safely with all the right safety equipment. Yes, you will fall off but there’s no danger, you’ll get more of a bruised ego than anything else.

And what am I doing when I’m not working, I’m here training using the facilities. I am obsessed, but I love the challenge and the problem solving, working out the best route to the top. I’m also pretty good at speed climbing! At one time I was the fastest female in the centre, you can still find the video on YouTube. And I recently competed in the first round of the England speed series, which we hosted here, and I placed second with a time of 12.6 seconds.

My holidays now also tie in with an opportunity to go climbing. I’ve been climbing in Greece, France and Spain. There’s nothing better than a climb in the sunshine, perfect for your wellbeing and mental health. Climbing really is my passion.

So, there’s nothing stopping you. I look forward to seeing you on the walls and showing you the ropes soon!”

Dr Alex Baker

Assistant Professor, Chemistry

“I was interested to find out if I could turn Science Fiction into Science Fact!”

“I was asked by the Royal Institution to do a lecture. I didn’t want to do another standard ‘here’s my research’ type one. I wanted to do something that would be of interest to the audience and would resonate with people of all ages. And the date for the lecture, May the 4th, otherwise known as Star Wars Day! So, the ‘Chemistry of Star Wars’ was created.

Obviously, I love Star Wars. I mean, one of my social media names is AB1Kenobi, that gets eyebrows raised in research presentations sometimes! I wasn’t trying to prove the film wrong and say it’s not possible, I wanted to demonstrate how we can get as near to it with today’s chemistry. Questions like could we make a lightsaber, can we really freeze Han Solo, recreate a Storm Trooper’s armour or power a Star Destroyer using green energy. You’ll have to come to one of the lectures to find out. It really is fascinating though, and it’s been great to bring Chemistry to a wider audience.

There’s also a serious side to my work. During the COVID-19 lockdown my research was applied to tackling the problems of COVID-19 diagnosis. Long story short, we were one of the first groups able to prove that coronavirus could be sensed in a rapid lateral flow device. Which I’m sure you’ve all had the pleasure of using at some point during the pandemic.

That technology is now being used to detect venom in snake bites. I had a gap between school and starting university, so went to teach science at an orphanage in Nepal for a short time. While I was there, I saw the impact that snake bites had in less economically developed countries, so was always interested in that area. I set up the Baker Humanitarian Chemistry Group and now I’ve been able to do something to help. Despite the rumours we don’t actually have any snakes in the lab, but we do have some sample venom!

I remember not doing that well in Chemistry GCSE, I wasn’t very good at the practical side. I was all set to start medicine, but I came here on a Chemistry offer holder open day and my head was turned. So, I certainly wasn’t expecting to win any awards, but I’m pleased to say that my work has been recognised and I’m making a difference with my research. Long may it continue and may the force be with you!”

Enaya Nihal

President, Warwick SU

“I arrived on campus at 2am and couldn’t believe it was all real!”

“I grew up in Saudi Arabia & India and always wanted to have an education abroad. I looked at the US, Canada, and the UK, but it was the people that drew me into coming to Warwick.

It was during lockdown, so I couldn’t attend an open day. Everything was done online or through group chats with other people who were interested in coming here. Some of those people I met online are now my best friends.

I started studying Economics, Politics and International Studies back in September 2020. I’d never been to the UK before, it took me four and a half hours to get through border control. Arriving here in the early hours, the first thing I saw was the Bluebell accommodation block. It actually looked like the place my friends and I had spent hours poring over on the website. It’s been a massive change and lots of new things to get used to. I won’t go into the food, but I really do love being here in the UK. Being from Saudi, which is mostly a desert, I also love the weather. I know that sounds odd, but it’s nice to have the unpredictable British weather! Autumn is my favourite time of the year, the colours are amazing, especially on campus.

I got involved in the union through a variety of part time roles starting in October of my first year and here I am, President of the SU! It’s a very interesting role and obviously having been a student, I know what it’s like and what the priorities are for the student communities, making sure their voices are heard. It’s a very public facing role, you get involved in everything that is happening across campus.

One of my proudest achievements is the (Free) Breakfast Club. This was set up to help tackle the impact of the Cost-of-Living crisis last year. It’s been a great success, and we see hundreds of students come in every week. I knew if they’re queueing up to come in at 8.30 on a cold February morning, then it was needed, even as a first step… student wellbeing is at the heart of every decision I’ve made at the Union.

My time here has meant so much more than what I envisioned. I didn’t get the opportunities back home that I have here. I’ve really thrown myself into university life and taken full advantage of the freedom. It means so much to me. We never had concerts back home, either, so I’m always looking to go to a gig! Catch me at everything from Fall Out Boy to Taylor Swift!”

Professor Harbinder Sandhu

Warwick Medical School

“It was my dad who inspired me to explore how health and wellbeing had an impact on the human mind.”

“My dad was an athlete and bodybuilder. Very much into his fitness and obviously as a young girl, I looked up to him and was interested in everything he did. I didn’t know then what a psychologist was or what they did. But I knew that I wanted to find out more about the mind and human behaviour.

My first job was working as a researcher in the medical school, looking at ways to improve communication between the doctor and patient. I was really interested in the research but also wanted to develop myself as a psychologist and an academic. I did my master’s in health psychology and the rest is history! Taking a job as qualified psychologist in the NHS, I now had the best of both worlds. I was able to see people with long term pain in clinical practice and then had the opportunity to take part in world leading clinical trials here.

I’ve been very lucky to be able to combine both my passions and every day is different, which helps when you’ve been here for 21 years.

As you’d expect from someone who is interested in the human mind, I like to challenge mine. I’m into anything creative that will get the mind going in different ways. I love dancing, particularly Cuban Salsa. It’s a great way to express yourself but I just really like music and movement so any dancing will help your mindfulness. Also, my family will tell you differently and say I’m not very musical. But I’ve started to learn to play guitar and can now strum a few chords, It’s a start. I’ve also taken online lessons to learn the drums. Imagine how well that went down at home.

Even though I’ve always also had an interest in health and wellbeing my aim is to walk more. I’ve started to do that now around campus, we’re lucky to have so many natural spaces to explore. Although when I’m out with friends I’m always the first to suggest getting an Uber!”

Dr Bo Kelestyn

Associate Professor, Warwick Business School

“When I decided that I wanted to study in the UK, my father was against it.”

“Being the eldest of five children, I was expected to take over the family business. I had to make my case to leave not only home, but my country, to make something of myself that was my own. Eventually, after a lot of persuasion, he was happy to support me. That was 18 years ago.

Arriving in the UK there were a lot of new things to get used to. You have different food, accents, sockets and even taps for a start. That was a lot to take in for an 18-year-old. And everyone was so polite and queue everywhere!

Ukrainian school qualifications don’t convert into the UK system, so I had to do my A-levels at a boarding school. I was already two years older than most pupils! Once I’d got them, I went onto university. I got 5 A-levels but did not get an offer from Warwick! After graduation, I returned home for a short while. My parents realised that I’d changed quite a lot, I was probably more British than Ukrainian at that time, so they allowed me to return to the UK to do my Master’s at Warwick. I’ve been here ever since and am now a Course Director for the MSc I graduated from.

Obviously, I can’t not mention the ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the impact that it’s had on me, my family, and friends. I wanted to do something to support my country and the best way I could was through education. I set up a programme to help Ukraine rebuild its education, with support from many colleagues and the Ukrainian Leadership Academy. We had over 250 people express an interest and 40 have now completed the programme, and it continues to grow. I couldn’t be prouder of everyone who has supported or been involved. We got a Warwick Wows award as well which was a nice recognition.

I feel a strong sense of duty to represent Ukraine in everything I do, even if just wearing a lapel ribbon with Ukrainian colours or a Vyshyvanka, a traditional embroidered shirt. I lost my father halfway through my PhD. He was such a patriot. I’d like to think he would be proud of the educational leader and Ukrainian that I have become."

Professor Stuart Coles

Associate Dean (Research), WMG

“I was always breaking glass in my Chemistry lessons at school. When I told my teacher I was going to study it at university, he just laughed.”

“I came to Warwick to do my PhD and I’ve never left! But when you get to work with the kind of equipment available here, why would you go anywhere else? It’s second to none.

As a Professor in Sustainable Materials, I want to work on projects that have an impact on everyone's lives. Making things that we all use daily more environmentally friendly. Whether that’s the packaging or product itself, I’ve got the academic freedom to do that here.

If you’d told the 18-year-old me that I would go on to publish papers as diverse as ‘Hydrothermal Treatment of Waste Plastics’ and ‘Renewable energy for rural communities in Maharashtra, India’ in the same career. I would have reacted in the same way as my Chemistry teacher all those years ago.

Away from Warwick my big passion is Ice Hockey. I’m part of the media team at the Coventry Blaze and have been commentating on the webcast for the past 10 years. During lockdown, I even went into an empty arena in Nottingham to provide commentary to the fans at home, that was quite a surreal but rewarding experience.

I co-host a regular podcast and occasionally host events for the team. It’s a bit like having a second job but it’s a great release from the week’s work. I’d recommend taking in a match, they never pass without an incident!”

Sam Pordale

Co-President of Warwick Student Action for Refugees

“There were moments on the journey when I thought, if I die here, nobody will know what happened to me.”

“In an instant my life went from one of privilege in Afghanistan to becoming a refugee in real danger. It was August 2021, Taliban militants had taken control of Kabul. Until that morning my father held a high-ranking position in the democratic government.

Getting to the airport and onto an evacuation flight was not going to be possible. There was no way we would get past the Taliban checkpoints. I lost my father in the crowd. At that point I didn’t know I’d never see him again. But I did know that I was on my own and it was up to me to find a way of getting out.

My journey to the UK took eight months, taking me through Iran, Turkey, Italy and France by minibus, boat and foot. I’d crossed into Turkey illegally, so I didn’t have the paperwork needed to work or stay. I spoke fluent English and decided that the UK was my only chance to be accepted and do something useful. It took nine attempts to get here by small boat.

At my asylum accommodation I met the Red Cross and started to volunteer at one of their drop-in centres as an English teacher. I was put forward for an academic research programme, looking at the barriers that refugees faced accessing higher education. I was surprised to learn that I could apply to study at UK universities. I applied for five undergraduate courses across the country.

I was awarded a full scholarship to study politics and international studies at Warwick. I started in September 2023 with no money, clothes or suitcase. But now the campus feels like home. Everyone is my family, from the lecturers to the cleaners, I know everyone.

In my first week I joined the university’s Student Action for Refugees group, I’m now the co-president. I often think back to my life a few years ago and can’t believe what I’ve been through. The idea I could become a refugee overnight would have seemed crazy. But laws, governments, your rights, they can all disappear in a second and all you’re left with is yourself. I want to make the best of every chance to live a good life.”

Mick McLaughlin

Business Development Esports & Createch

“I threw away two signed napkins from Yoko Ono!”

“Although what I do now is quite commercial, I’ve always had a creative mind. I’m an avid writer and have written scripts for plays, none have made it to the stage, yet! I’ve also written a novel called Dead Happy, it’s all about putting the fun into funerals, with a love story thrown in as well. I’d love to see it made into a film one day, it’s a musical and all the songs are written - don’t ask me to sing them though!

Without sounding too morbid I think death should be seen as a celebration of life. I acted as a celebrant at the funeral for one of my friend’s aunts. It wasn’t something that I’d thought about and did wonder what I’d let myself in for, but it was just like telling a story of the person’s life

Now, those napkins. In a previous role I had the pleasure of having afternoon tea with Yoko Ono. She was in Coventry visiting the cathedral to dedicate two Japanese oak trees in celebration of her life and work with John Lennon. She kindly signed the napkins to my kids, it was the only thing I had on me.

I left them in my car and around a week later we went through a drive thru, ordered the food and eat it in the car park as you do. Well, you guessed it, the napkins were swept up in the rubbish. I didn’t realise until weeks later when I went to get them for the kids, absolutely gutted!”

Alex Jackson

Trainee Software Engineer IDG

“I’ve not had the best experience, and I don’t want anyone else to go through the same as me.”

“I was late diagnosed as autistic but always felt like I was wired differently to everyone else. I didn't know anything about neurodiversity back then, I honestly thought I was going crazy.

When I received my diagnosis, I felt validated. Imagine going through life and as far as you can tell, all your senses work, but everyone keeps telling you that what you experience isn't real. You're just making it up.

To be autistic means your brain develops differently to the normal standard, which is known as neurotypical or NT for short. It's something you're born with. This can become obvious when it comes to social communication and interaction and can be characterised by developmental delays. For an example, I was mute until I was four, but when I did talk, it was in full grammatically correct sentences.

Warwick has immense potential to create a nurturing and inclusive environment for its neurodiverse staff members. Those of us who are autistic, or who have ADHD, dyslexia or dyspraxia, for example. We're often expected to adapt to environments that do not benefit or support us. For a neurotypical staff member, a meeting cancelled at the last minute or a loud, brightly-lit office space would not necessarily impact them. But for neurodiverse colleagues, these things can be deeply draining - and we are constantly having to react and respond to them in a workplace that is traditionally set up for neurotypical staff

We’re expected to conform to societal norms that are not natural to us. When I attended the Staff Neurodiversity Peer Support Group earlier this year, I quickly realised that when we ask for help, there is no standard response.

I’m setting up a group of Neurodiversity Champions from across the University. The aim of this group is to raise awareness and all I really want to do is to help somebody. Whether it's a manager understanding things or somebody realising that they've been struggling with things all their life. Not knowing what label to give that or know what to research to find that out. If it can help just one person, then I've done what I set out to do.”

Warren Daniel

Maintenance Assistant

“I would never have had the confidence to do this when I started.”

“I started in the maintenance team as a volunteer around four years ago. I came straight from college to get some experience and I’d been told it was a good place to work. After a year a vacancy came up, I was encouraged to apply and was lucky to get the job.

I have autism and when I started here, I wasn’t able to work on my own. I also found it very difficult to talk to people. Now, I’m able to do both of those things. My team call me a superstar but they’re the ones that have really helped me. Showing patience and helping me learn new skills. Once I’ve been shown how to do something a couple of times, I’m confident to have a go on my own. It’s not been without some problems though, I remember working on a shower in one of the rooms. The water hadn’t been turned off and I ended up being the barrier between the water and it damaging the rest of the room.

I never thought I’d be doing anything like this either, having my photograph taken and telling my story. I’m proud to be recognised as a Human of Warwick. All I want to do is a good job and I really enjoy getting the rooms ready for the students. It’s such a big step for some of them, especially those travelling from other countries. I want them to be able to come somewhere they feel comfortable and not homesick. I also enjoy talking with them now, helping them settle in and finding out about them.

Outside of the University I like to spend time with my family and I’m a huge Coventry City fan. My dad is a fan, so he brought me up to support them. I follow them home and away and rarely miss a game.”

Emily Tricker

Deputy Head of Wellbeing Support

“I’m more of a tortoise than a hare, but it’s all for a good cause.”

“I’m taking on a 10k run in April to raise money for the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) charity, which is a suicide prevention charity. Sadly, I lost a close friend five years ago and I wanted to do something in his memory and raise some awareness. It’s a sad statistic but we lose 18 people to suicide every day in the UK.

My training is going well and while I’m no athlete, I’m committed to crossing that finishing line. You get the same medal as everyone else, no matter where you finish! Working in the Wellbeing Team you’d expect me to say that health and exercise is important and I’m practicing what I preach. Everyone has busy lives and commitments but try and do what you can, when you can. Even if that means a walk with a pub at the end, that’s not a problem. Socialising is also great for your mental health!

I’m very proud to be part of the Wellbeing Team. The team works extremely hard to support students with a huge variety of issues. Talking is important and often the difficult first step to take, but we’re always here for whoever needs us.

So, once I’ve done the run in April, I’ll be ready for my next challenge whatever that may be. Maybe a half marathon!”

Claire Algar

Social Inclusion Manager

“The second I stepped onto campus, I just thought that I didn’t belong here.”

“I grew up in the local area, but the University wasn’t the kind of place that we ventured. But, I needed a job and made an application via Unitemps for an entry level role in the Chemistry department. I received a letter offering me an interview. That’s when I started questioning things, like why was I going to be interviewed by a Doctor of Chemistry.

I didn’t understand the structure of the University, didn’t speak or use the same language as everyone else and hadn’t had the same education. I thought very quickly that I don’t fit, I was very low on confidence when I started here. Over the years I’ve come to realise that Warwick has been amazing for me. With the support of my colleagues, who saw potential in me that I didn’t even know I had myself. I’ve been able to have a career and life that I didn’t know existed or I could even have.

Everyone should belong here and that’s why the work I do in the social inclusion team is so important to me. My focus is on social mobility, giving people opportunities that they wouldn’t normally have. Like my work on the prison leavers initiative or my work with the EY Foundation, who support young people from a low-income background to thrive in the workplace. We bring 20 young people onto campus for 10 days, twice a year, for some work experience and to learn employment and interview skills. I also designed and implemented the Social Inclusion intern programme, so I like to think that I’m making a difference to people’s lives.

Very occasionally, I still do have some nagging self-doubts about whether I really do belong here. Imposter syndrome creeps in regularly, but after 15 years, I absolutely do belong here. And so should anyone who wants a rewarding, fulfilling career.”

Paul Thompson

Gardener - (Wellesbourne)

“There’s a lot of wildlife on campus, you just need to know where to look.”

“My passion for wildlife photography started a long time ago. I used to go to Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve to birdwatch with a friend, I found it quite a funny thing to do at first. Unfortunately, he’s now passed away, but I wanted to carry on in his memory.

I bring my camera into work with me, taking any opportunity to capture wildlife in my breaks. I’ve seen foxes, deer, rabbits, hares, kingfishers, herons and of course the ducks and geese, lots of geese! There’s a family of foxes near the Gibbet Hill campus, I first spotted them around 14 years ago. They regularly come out of the woodland to say hello, so I like to photograph them as often as possible.

I’ve also been whale watching with Chris Packham round the Bay of Biscay. I managed to get some great pictures, and he encouraged me to share them, he thought they were that good. I’ve had my pictures used on Countryfile, some of which were taken on campus.

Photography takes over my weekends and spare time as well. You’ll always find me with my camera out in the countryside or taking in the scenery sitting on my friend’s memorial bench at the nature reserve.

I’ve been working as a gardener in the Estates team for 36 years, an office job wasn’t for me. I enjoy being out in the open air, it’s great for your wellbeing and mental health. I like watching the landscape change at different times of the day and throughout the year. We’re lucky to have such clear seasons, all four are different and I enjoy aspects of each one, but winter is the best. Everything quietens down.”

Jayne Bridges

Arts Centre Visitor Experience Assistant

“Every day is an adventure, it certainly is for me. I’ve not had a boring life and I’m still making the most of it.”

“I had a varied career before becoming quite successful in the wine trade. I became a good taster and took the relevant exams. That enabled me to work extensively in the UK and various parts of the world. When that ended, I was not up for retirement! I had no firm plans, but I loved art. So, I came to Warwick and took a History of Art degree.

Having been to the Arts Centre to watch numerous events, I was aware of all the activities that you can do there. That’s when I started volunteering, 15 years ago. I was then fortunate to be offered a contract and now do 20 hours a week. It’s very varied work and I love working here, being part of a strong team. I’m surrounded by young people so I can impress my grandchildren with my knowledge of Tik Tok!

I particularly enjoy the Symphony concerts and Graduation week, when both parents and Graduates are all in fine spirits. But my real fondness is for The Mead Gallery. Many people who work at Warwick don’t visit, they really should as it’s fantastic, and the best thing is, it’s free.

I also love travelling, I’ve been to more countries than I am old. I spent six weeks backpacking in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand, and I’ve kayaked on the Amazon and in the Galapagos Islands. I’m not yet ready for SAGA trips, I’m up for new adventures.”

Matt Drew

Director of Food & Beverage, Warwick Food Group

“I was serving scones at the age of 16 in a tea shop in the New Forest. Yes, it’s jam first!”

“Scones seem to have followed me around. I worked for the National Trust for ten years, so famous for their scones there’s even a book about them. And you might find a scone on the menu at one of the outlets across the campus. They always sell!

As you’d expect, doing my job I have a passion for food, and this extends to both at home and work. I wanted to do a job with purpose and with Eatwise I’ve been able to do that. I wanted to lead and press for dishes using fresh, seasonal and healthy ingredients that help our community to thrive.

The creativity that comes out of the test kitchen is amazing. I can’t believe that it’s been a year since we launched, but I think we’re making good progress with our mission to provide mindful food for thriving minds.

While I don’t get to cook at work, which is probably for the best, at home I like to entertain! Having people I love gather around the table, enjoying something I’ve created for dinner brings me a lot of joy. I particularly like preparing Spanish food, there’s something about tapas that brings people together. But any food that’s informal, fresh and bold in flavour is fun to prepare.”

Dr Freeha Azmat

Associate Professor, WMG

“My interests were always in maths and engineering. Growing up in Pakistan, it was the men who became the engineers, and the women doctors or teachers.”

“After some, let’s just say challenging, conversations with my family I took the step to study for a degree in Information and Communications Systems Engineering at National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) in Pakistan. An unusual step for a woman but I’ve always been about turning challenges into opportunities.

After graduation I won a fully funded scholarship to take my master’s in advanced Distributed Systems. Here was the next problem, it was at the University of Leicester, and I had to convince my parents that it was the right thing for a single woman from Pakistan to travel to the UK alone. I think I made the right decision.

I’ve been very lucky and over the years have received a lot of recognition and awards. I strongly believe in giving back and mentoring future generations. I’d like to show the young girls there that there is a world of possibilities for them in the engineering and technology sector. And now I have a family of my own, its’s no surprise that my son is also a young engineer in the making.”

James Bonsall

Technical Director, MSL

“I remember when Oasis played the Students’ Union. It was one of their early gigs, they played football in the dressing room.”

“I spent around eight years working in the entertainment team at the SU. Managing the sound and lighting for the bands that came through. We’ve had them all, either on their way up, or their way back down again!

It was seven nights a week back in those days, great times, and it never felt like work, more like being in the pub every day! But I knew it wasn’t something I could do for ever. Once the gigs were out of my system I moved into the IT team, a team of two back then.

Computers were starting to come in while I was at school, all very new and interesting and I spent a few years getting into them. Although when I left school, I followed other interests, it was inevitable that I’d end up working with computers. And now our MSL software is in place at over 130 students’ unions and universities worldwide.

Having studied at Warwick as well, I’ve been here for 31 years, there’s no better place to be doing it.”

Professor Olanrewaju Sorinola

Academic Lead Phase II, Warwick Medical School

“From a young age I always wanted to present myself well. Who says men can’t have different types of shoes. They don’t have to be boring black or brown.”

“Back home in Nigeria I was a child prodigy. Thanks to my aunt, who was also the headteacher, I started school early at the age of three. Moving to secondary school aged nine and started university aged 14. I graduated at the age of 20. I’m still the youngest graduate of medicine in Nigeria - they used to call me baby doctor! I keep checking and hoping that a 19-year-old doesn’t come along and trump me.

The turning point in my life happened in secondary school. One of my friends started convulsing, looking back now I know it was an epileptic seizure. The teachers told everyone to not touch him, and I just felt that was wrong. That’s when I decided that medicine and helping people was my path. Although all of my prizes at school were in physics, not biology, but I knew what I wanted to do.

As a clinical academic I also work at Warwick Hospital as a consultant gynaecologist. I’ve been very lucky and it’s my passion to be able to help people, and yes, I’ve got over 100 pairs of shoes.”

Steve Russell

Operations Director, Warwick SU

“Most people in my position wouldn’t work the doors anymore, I just choose to.”

“I started as a part time barman in the Students Union when I was 18, I’m not going to tell you how long ago that was. When I started, I said that I’d stay for as long as I was enjoying myself and that I didn’t feel older than the students. I’ve had to let the second bit go but I’ve never left, so that must tell you something. And both of my kids have worked for the SU as well.

I’ve always enjoyed the interaction with the students, it’s still one of the favourite parts of the job. We get quite a lot of banter on the door, mainly from the sports teams. I just like to see everyone have a good time and more importantly, keep them safe.

I’ve also looked after the entertainment, we’ve had loads of bands and DJs through the doors and some strange requests to deal with. I remember The Pogues wanting a bath of ice, the ice was easy to get but finding a bath to put in their dressing room, more of a challenge, but we made sure it happened!”

Susie Longstaff

Masters in the History of Medicine

“I was determined to carry on with my studies but felt like that dream had come to an end. Luckily, I was given a second chance.”

“Being neurodiverse and having moderate hearing loss, as a disabled pupil I never felt supported in the education system. Before I could complete my studies I was withdrawn from my college course, basically kicked out in the second year. This left me with no A levels and a complete mistrust in the education system.

After a relationship breakdown I also found myself homeless for the third time and spent a year in and out of various Travelodges across Birmingham. But I’ve recently graduated from Birmingham Newman University and I’m now studying my Masters in the History of Medicine at Warwick.

Being at Warwick is helping me reach my full potential, and have you tried the vegan cakes on the Curiositea menu? They’re amazing! When I’m not on campus I work in the Visitor Experience team for the Birmingham Museums Trust. I also love taking wildlife photography and singing soprano in my local choir.”