Today, we’re catching up with our Business and Management School Rep, Elise Eriksson to hear about what she has been up to in her role and what exciting initiatives are taking place in the School.
As School Rep, I’ve been working hard with the course reps to collect as much feedback as possible to relay back to the school administration. Together with the SU, we ran two successful Rep Fairs in the library where we collected over 100 pieces of constructive feedback that we are working to tackle. Some of the key issues we’ve taken up with the school have included:
- Assignment bunching: Students in the final year have expressed concerns over assignments being too closely bunched together throughout the year. This issue has been raised to the administrative team and we’re currently working to separate a few of them and ensure this is not an issue in the future.
- Assignment deadline reminders: We’re working together with Lucy, our Dean of Student Experience and the admin team to ensure that all students across the business school are receiving deadline reminders a week and a day before the assignment is due, regardless of what year group you’re in.
- Group projects: Students in previous years have expressed concerns about group projects being too heavily weighted in modules. The business school has tackled this and for first years in this academic year and onwards, group projects will only make up 20% of a module grade.
Students have also raised concerns about university-wide issue such as Moodle’s layout and timetables, and in these cases, we’ve shared the news that Maddy, VP Education, is currently working to change Moodle’s layout and given students guidelines on how to change their workshops or lectures if they conflict with commitments like work.
Empowering Students: Key Initiatives in the Business School
The Business School is committed to ensuring that students leave university with not only academic knowledge but also practical skills, industry connections, and a sense of purpose. Through our Marketing Mentoring Scheme, Changemaker Initiative, and Career Tales Scheme, we offer students opportunities to develop professionally, influence positive change, and prepare for the future of work. Additionally, we are equipping students with essential responsible AI skills, ensuring they are ready to navigate an increasingly digital business environment.
Marketing Mentoring Scheme
Our Marketing Mentoring Scheme connects undergraduate and postgraduate marketing students with experienced industry professionals, many of whom are alumni or senior figures in the sector. Mentors provide insights into industry trends, career development guidance, and practical advice on navigating the job market. Students gain first-hand knowledge of what employers look for, build professional networks, and often secure internships or job opportunities as a result. This initiative ensures our students graduate with not just a degree, but also real-world insights and career-ready skills.
Changemaker Initiative
The Changemaker Initiative empowers students to drive positive change within the Business School itself, helping to create a better learning environment for future cohorts. Students participating in this initiative have proposed and implemented real improvements in areas such as student support, teaching methods, and campus resources. Their contributions have led to tangible changes, demonstrating the power of student voice and leadership. While the focus is on making internal improvements, students also develop highly transferable skills in leadership, problem-solving, and change management, which are invaluable in the workplace.
Career Tales Scheme
The Career Tales Scheme is a unique programme that helps students craft and communicate their personal and professional narratives. Through interactive storytelling workshops, storyboarding exercises, and AI-assisted career mapping, students learn how to articulate their strengths, experiences, and career goals effectively. This is particularly valuable for interviews, networking, and job applications, ensuring students stand out in a competitive market. The initiative is especially impactful for students from underrepresented backgrounds, giving them the confidence and tools to position themselves successfully in the professional world.
Teaching Responsible AI Use
As artificial intelligence transforms the business landscape, we are ensuring that our students graduate with the ability to use AI ethically, effectively, and responsibly. Across multiple modules, we integrate responsible AI education, teaching students how to critically evaluate AI-generated content, understand bias in algorithms, and use AI tools to enhance their work without compromising integrity. This forward-thinking approach ensures that our graduates are not just tech-savvy but also ethically aware and prepared for the future of business.
Through these initiatives, the Business School is fostering industry-ready, socially responsible graduates who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a meaningful impact in their careers and beyond.
>> How you can get involved
There are many ways to get involved in the Business School and the two best ways include becoming a Business Ambassador or Course Representative. As an ambassador, you will work to promote the business school to visitors, host events for students and many more things. As a Course Rep, you’ll be working closely with me to speak to your classmates and understand how their experience at Royal Holloway can be improved. These roles give you a chance to leave a lasting impact on the university and make everyday life better for everyone. If you feel this is the role for you, SU elections are also coming up where you’ll be able nominate to become next year’s School Rep and work with all the incredible students and staff in the business school.
This term the business school will be hosting a handful of events and workshops for students looking to network and gain skills to join. To stay up to date with what is taking place, make sure you follow the business school on the channels you most use such as Instagram or LinkedIn and you’ll be able to see what’s on more often.
If you would like to contact me, the best way to reach me is via email at sbm.schoolrep@royalholloway.su. You can also contact me on the official SBM School Rep Instagram page @sbmschool.rhsu. If you see me on campus you’re always free to come up and say hi as well!