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Kings Open Day Guys 2018-52 cropped ;

5 minutes with Jazmine Portch

Jazmine Portch is an Operations Assistant for Mathias Gautel in the School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, as well as an Administrator for the Hub for Applied Bioinformatics (HAB). We caught up with Jazmine to learn more about her passion for Education and who inspires her the most.

Jazmine Portch stood in front of campus

Briefly, tell us about your background and career up to this point?

I have a somewhat unique background, I moved from Canada to the UK about eight months ago. After earning my Master’s degree in Environment & Sustainability, I worked in the climate change sector for the Government of Canada. However, I soon realized that role wasn’t the right fit for me and decided to make a change by relocating to London. I've always had a passion for education and wanted to contribute in an administrative capacity, which led me to my current role at KCL as an Operations Assistant for Mathias Gautel in the Basic and Medical Biosciences School, as well as providing administrative support for the Hub for Applied Bioinformatics (HAB).

What is a typical day like for you?

The great thing about this position is that no day looks the same, I love the flexibility and contrast each day has. One day, I might take on the role of an event coordinator, booking venues, arranging catering, and managing schedules to ensure everything runs smoothly. On another day, I may focus on financial tasks, monitoring grant budgets and handling budget transfers. I also manage communications for the HAB and take on various administrative responsibilities as needed.

What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

To no put so much pressure on having to decide what I am going to do with my life. If you continue to pick paths that make you happy, you will have a fulfilling life.

What do you do with your time outside academia/work?

I really enjoy doing anything outdoors, I love going for runs or walking around in parks. I also used to work in a bakery, so you’ll often find me baking bread or cookies.

What are you most looking forward to this year?

Since I am coming from Canada, I have never been so close to the European countries, so I am excited about travelling to a few new places this year!

Who inspires you most and why?

My two older sisters inspire me the most. They are determined, hardworking, and never stop until they achieve their goals to the best of their abilities. I’m incredibly grateful to have such strong, independent women in my life and to share such a close bond with them.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Probably moving to the UK, I have always dreamed of working and living in London and now I am finally living out that dream!

QUICK-FIRE:

Favourite season: Autumn

Favourite book: Where the Crawdads Sing

Netflix recommendation:

Severance (it’s actually on Apple TV but it’s too good not to recommend)

Coffee order: Chai Latte, because I don’t drink coffee

 

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