Briefly, tell us about your background and career up to this point?
I studied History at the University of Southampton and graduated in 2017. I’ve always had an interest in modern history, so in my Third Year I specialised in the Nazi Occupation of France. After graduating, I started working at a probate research firm, where I remained for four years before joining King's last December. I work in the Comprehensive Cancer Centre, supporting colleagues with their HR, finance, administrative and research queries.
What is a typical day like for you?
My days are very varied, I have a real mix of tasks. At the moment I have been doing a lot of recruitment work; getting jobs advertised both internally and externally. I then assist with the whole process, which includes setting up interviews, performing right-to-work checks and then helping with the onboarding process. I also spend a lot of time assisting colleagues with financial tasks, which includes the processing of invoices, collating reports on remaining research grant budgets and moving payments between different research grant codes. A lot of tasks I perform are to help keep the department running smoothly. Everyday is different and I’m always learning something new!
Looking back, did the pandemic and resulting lockdowns teach you anything you’re willing to share?
It definitely made me realise how much I appreciate my freedom and being able to see friends and family spontaneously.
What do you do with your time outside academia/work?
I have always loved swimming and I try to go 3 to 4 times a week at a pool near my flat. Now that the lockdowns are over, I am also trying to make the most of living in central London and see more plays and musicals in the West End.
What are you most looking forward to this year?
I love travelling and I'm hoping to fit in a city break to Prague before the end of the year.
What is something positive that happened to you in 2022?
I have always wanted to travel more of Asia. I was really lucky to be able to go to Vietnam for two and a half weeks in August, with two of my friends from University. I studied history at the University of Southampton but I didn’t cover the Vietnam War, so it was really interesting to visit the tunnels and learn about the War. I also love Vietnamese food and it is a beautiful country so it was an incredible trip!
What is your favourite thing about working at King’s?
I love Guy’s Campus and the location of it – it’s been so nice throughout the summer months to be able to sit by the river in the sunshine and meet friends for lunch.
QUICK-FIRE:
Favourite season: Summer
Favourite London restaurant: Kao Sarn
Favourite book: Dolly Alderton’s ‘Everything I know About Love’
Favourite cuisine: Japanese