Name: Elaine Robinson

Job title: Undergraduate and Finance Secretary

Department: School of Modern Languages and Cultures

Number of years at Warwick: 20

There’s no such thing as a typical day, but, in brief, my job involves...

First job of the day is check emails, deal with any travel or accommodation requirements and any other urgent emails. My day changes throughout the year from raising purchase orders, processing invoices or claims, course transfers, first year exam boards, creating module diets, setting up small group teaching, coursework submissions and confirming module choices. I tend to check Warwick Swap on a regular basis in case a great piece of furniture becomes available (I’ve been known to grab a few great items). I deal with a lot of students both postgraduate and undergraduate, administrative and academic staff on a daily basis.

When I started at Warwick I was secretary to the head of the Research and Development Services Office (now known as Research & Impact Services), Lee Sanders. My roles were many and varied including research committee papers, meetings and appointments and organising flights and accommodation.

In my time at Warwick, the biggest change I’ve seen is...

The campus is always changing. For me the biggest change was when my old department moved from Senate House to University House, I was very sad not to be in the centre of campus any more. I can’t believe the amount of buildings that keep springing up, but we do still have a beautiful campus which is lovely to run or walk around.

Warwick’s kept me here because...

I’ve stayed at Warwick because I believe it looks after its staff. My colleagues have always been very supportive both on a professional and personal level, plus there’s the bonus of the lovely campus.

I've recently learnt that...

There are great running routes around Heron Bank accommodation.

Warwick’s unique because...

Having been to several other university open days with my children, I realise the stark difference between Warwick and other universities. I believe we’re more diverse, fun and very open and honest, not to mention once again the beautiful campus, nothing else has come close.

The best thing about working at Warwick is...

Mostly it’s the students who keep me young and my wonderful colleagues who always have my back.

If I could change one thing at the University, it would be...

I only wish I could live nearer to campus as it’s a long bus journey.

I'm really glad I got involved with...

Years ago in my previous role I used to work on the recruitment days held on campus in October and November, I met a lot of people from all walks of life.

I recently watched...

Three Minute Heroes at the Arts Centre, A Play for Today, filmed in 1982 which my sister was in. The event was organised by Dr Trevor McCrisken of Politics, the whole event was to discuss the Two Tone era - it was a brilliant event.

My favourite place on campus is...

Walking or running around the lakes or the woods, it’s so peaceful.

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