Ife

TLSE Support Intern (IAG/SSW) at The University of Manchester

I currently work within the professional services team at the School of Health Sciences, I studied MSc in Global Development ( Politics, Governance and Development Policy).

Give a quick snapshot of your role

My role focuses on providing day to day support to students through the Student Support Hub. I work across both Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) and Student Wellbeing, so no two days look the same.

A typical day involves speaking with students who come to the desk, responding to emails, and taking phone calls. The support we provide covers a wide range of areas, everything from attendance and absence requests to extensions, wellbeing events, and general student enquiries.

On the IAG side, I work closely with my team to offer students practical advice and guidance on issues like housing, timetables, finance, official letters and documents, assessments, commuting to campus and more.

It’s a very student facing role, and I enjoy being part of the first line of support that helps students navigate university life.

What have you learned during your MGT?

Through the Internship, I’ve developed a strong mix of workplace and people focused skills that have really shaped my confidence.

Working closely with students every day has strengthened my communication skills, whether that’s writing clear emails, or explaining complex university processes in a way that feels simple and supportive. I’ve become much better at listening carefully, understanding what students really need, and responding with empathy.

The fast paced nature of the Hub has also taught me how to juggle competing tasks, stay organised, and handle unexpected situations calmly. Because the role cuts across both IAG and Student Wellbeing, I’ve learned how to solve problems quickly, make good decisions, and work closely with different teams to make sure students get the right support.

I’ve also built confidence using internal systems and managing information responsibly, which has helped me develop a stronger sense of professionalism.

As an international student working my first job in the UK, this experience has been even more valuable. It’s given me a real understanding of workplace culture, expectations, and etiquette here, and it’s helped me adapt to a new environment while building the kind of practical, transferable skills that employers look for.

Why would you recommend MGT?

I would recommend the MGT programme because it’s a great first step for graduates who want to ease into the workplace while still being supported. It gives you the chance to build real confidence, develop essential professional skills, and learn how different teams operate in a large institution.

It’s also a unique opportunity to continue being part of the University community but this time from the inside.

The combination of hands on learning, supportive colleagues, and a welcoming environment makes it a really valuable way to begin your career.

What are your future plans?

I hope to transition into a role that allows me to continue researching global development issues, particularly poverty in the UK, which has become an area of growing interest for me. In the long term, I would love to contribute to policy work that addresses these challenges and helps create more equitable outcomes for communities.

Please summarise your MGT experience in three words

Supportive, Engaging and Meaningful