Eleni Markoudi, Economics

What made you sign up for the Warwick Award? What was the appeal?

The Warwick Award presented me with a once-in-a-lifetime chance to enhance both my academic and professional growth. The organised way it helped me develop crucial abilities, be ready for life after college, and enrich my time at university were big draws.

How have you managed to balance developing your skills through the Award with your studies?

Time management and prioritisation skills were crucial in allowing me to succeed in both the Award and my academic pursuits. I made time for Award activities every week, and they became an integral part of my schedule. By taking the initiative to coordinate my coursework with the needs of the Award, I was able to maximise my time and effort while maintaining a healthy equilibrium.

Have you found the Award platform easy to use and manage your progress?

Absolutely! The Gradintelligence platform is an easy-to-navigate and understand site. It makes it easier to monitor my development, highlight accomplished tasks, and get direction on what to do next. The platform's user-friendliness ensures that I can manage my Award experience with ease.

What are some activities you’ve completed that have contributed towards your Award progress? What sort of skills did they help you develop?

Workshops, volunteering, and holding executive positions in student organisations were just a few of the many pursuits I immersed myself in. My ability to talk to others, collaborate with others, and take the lead was all strengthened by these experiences. My sense of empathy and social awareness both flourished as a result of my involvement in community-based projects.

Which of the 12 core skills at the heart of the Award do you think are the most important ones for students to develop?

Professionalism, critical thinking, and self awareness are not only important but crucial for our overall growth as well. These competencies prepare us for the dynamic nature of the modern workplace by allowing us to face adversity, deal with uncertainty, and thrive in a wide range of settings.

How did it feel when you achieved the Gold Award?

It was really satisfying to achieve the Gold Award. It confirmed that the time and energy I put into developing myself throughout my time at university was not wasted. Pride in one's work and determination to maintain high standards were both greatly bolstered by this acknowledgement and success.

How useful do you think your achievements in the Warwick Award will be when you think about life after graduation?

After university, my Warwick Award accomplishments will be quite useful. They are concrete evidence of my dedication to lifelong learning, which is sure to impress future employers. The prestige I'll get from achieving the Award will help me stand out in a crowded job market and increase my chances of being hired.

What would you say to any new students who are thinking about signing up for the Award?

I think it's fantastic that the Warwick Award is being made available to new students. It's a life-altering experience that goes well beyond classroom learning to help you become an independent thinker, improve as a person, and set yourself up for future success. Take this chance to be the best student you can be and make an indelible mark on your time at university.

I really do believe its something extraordinary you can do while at university.