Egyptology graduates celebrate 20 years of friendship

Posted on: 30 September 2024 by Kim Fisher (BA Egyptian Archaeology 2007, MA Museum Studies 2014) in Blog

A group of Egyptology graduates celebrated 20 years of friendship since meeting at Liverpool. Kim Fisher shared the highlights of their recent reunion and the memorable moments they enjoyed together.

September 2024 marked 20 years since my friends and I started our Egyptology degrees and so we planned a reunion to celebrate 20 years of friendship that began in Liverpool, appropriately timed during Fresher’s Week.

Campus has changed so much since we were students in 2004 and we noticed a lot of new buildings, recreation facilities and lots of things to do for Fresher’s. We visited our old department in 14 Abercromby Square and although our old class library and lecture room is no longer in existence, the ground-floor space has been transformed into the Garstang Museum of Archaeology and so we enjoyed a private tour and took some photos in the rooms that we used to study in.

Left – Kim Fisher, Gemma Malyk, Charlotte Weaver, Sarah Duffy, Eleanor Wilkinson, Anna Garnett at the Garstang Museum

We visited the Victoria Gallery & Museum ‘Creatures of the Nile’ exhibition. The Waterhouse Café provided a very special lunch which we all thoroughly enjoyed. The Victoria Building was being refurbished while we were students, so it was great to showcase the original university building and its collections. We love that the university is embracing its history more and is proud to be the original redbrick and a special thanks go to the Alumni team who provided redbrick tote bags so that we can represent our university no matter where we are.

Our group enjoyed refreshments at the VG&M Waterhouse Café

At the appropriately named Sphinx bar, we enjoyed a few drinks surrounded by the 2024 Freshers and remarked on the changes to the Guild and remembered the fun nights out we had there and so we continued celebrations in town finding old student haunts and had another great night out to add to our memories of Liverpool. We finished the weekend with an Egyptian Escape room where our degrees came in very handy.

We solved ‘The Betrayal of Cluetankamun’ escape room game

Our degrees have led us into diverse occupations around the country including curatorial and collections roles at the universities of Cambridge and University College London, museum visitor services and education roles at The University of Liverpool as well as occupations at an auction house and the NHS. Although we don’t see each other often, we talk regularly in our ‘Uni Girls’ WhatsApp group. We’ve all achieved a lot over the last 20 years and we celebrate every win and support each other through the rollercoaster of life. You know when you’ve got a great friendship group when you can just pick up where you left off.

Advice that we have for students today is – take lots of photos! Looking back at our photos and talking about our student days was a highlight of our reunion. Be present and enjoy every moment! Try new things, volunteer and get involved in campus life as much as possible as you don’t know where this valuable experience can take you.  

A then and now photo of Kim in The Department of Archaeology, Classics & Egyptology

20 years ago feels like 20 minutes when we get together, we all loved our reunion … so we might just have to organise one soon to mark 20 years since we graduated!

Thanks to Kim, Gemma, Charlotte, Sarah, Eleanor and Anna for sharing their story with us. If you would like to share your reunion story, please get in touch with us at: alumni@liverpool.ac.uk.  

Celebrating 130 years of Law at Liverpool: Sharina Razali's memories

Posted on: 26 September 2023 in Blog

As Liverpool Law School celebrates its 130th anniversary, many will be reflecting on their time here at Liverpool.

Sharina Razali (LLB 1994, LLM 1995) came to Liverpool from Malaysia to study law in October 1992, having completed her first year at the Northern Consortium of the UK in Malaysia. One of Sharina’s earliest memories of her time at Liverpool was the temperature difference, coming from temperatures averaging between 26-34 degrees, to a slightly colder, windier and wetter Liverpool. Read on to hear about her memories of her student days and life after Liverpool.

“My first accommodation was at the Philharmonic Court on Catharine Street; the small and often cold room was at the end of a corridor on the topmost floor. The room heater would only come on for a few hours in the morning and in the evening, so I was often cold. I also had to go to a different block to use the public phones, there was no such thing as smartphones then! Liverpool has always been a home for students from around the world, and I shared the floor with five guys and four girls from various parts of the UK, Italy and Nigeria. My floormates were great fun and we would often walk down to the city for meals. I learnt very quickly that no matter the temperature it was always skirt weather!

Throughout my time at Liverpool I made friends from all over the world, from Singapore, Brunei, Iraq and the Dominican Republic, to France, Belgium, Canada, Thailand and Israel; Liverpool became a home for us all.

One of my standout memories is my first trip to the post office. When I asked for stamps, the lovely lady behind the counter replied in a language I coud have sworn wasn’t English (I later found out that she was speaking in broad Scouse). Not wanting to say the wrong thing, I just mumbled something about coming back and practically ran out. I turned to the the local radio to learn Scouse. I may not remember the name of the station but Snelly the DJ has stayed with me, as he was my go-to guy for learning Scouse. Whilst it may have taken a couple of weeks until I was confident enough to return to the post office and ask for stamps, DJ Snelly must’ve been a good teacher, because not only did I get my stamps, I also had a lovely chat with the staff.

Despite being a student 30 years ago, I’m sure I was in the same position as many students today, as I didn’t really know how to cook. My diet consisted of Ryvita with various toppings (tinned dressed crab was my favourite), pizza-flavoured Walker’s crisps and iced cupcakes. Whilst this saw me through my first year, I upgraded my diet after moving to a flat in my second year, sharing a flat with another three girls from Malaysia, one of whom was a fantastic cook!

Liverpool may have been slightly different to Malaysia, but everyone in Liverpool has a story and the city was full of diversity and culture. I used to shop at a small halal butchers, near the Law Faculty. The butcher was an old Malaysian sailor who had planted his roots in Liverpool back in the 70’s. I also used to get my tinned dressed crab from there.

When I was a student, the Law Faculty was in a huge airy building. The largest lecture hall had a few skylights and we would crowd round the patches of sunlight whenever they appeared.  The Faculty’s porter, Finlay McQuorqdale, was the dearest man I ever met. He always had time to lend an ear or a helping hand, the Liverpool community has always been so welcoming.

As many students do now, I joined two societies which transformed my time here. I joined both the Asean Society and the archery club. I thoroughly enjoyed learning how to shoot arrows, despite often missing the targets.

My favourite place on campus was Blackwell's bookshop, followed by Abercromby Square. When it was warm enough to sit on the bench I’d treat myself to an ice cream cone with a Flake.

As our flat used electricity cards, my flatmates and I spent many an hour at the Faculty or Stanley Jones library, bringing our own lunches of pasta with tuna and mayonnaise, which tasted pretty good if I do say so myself. I sometimes would survive a whole day on a frozen cheese pizza, heated up so many times that by the end of the day it would look like a piece of cardboard. Smoked salmon was cheap, so if I was feeling fancy I would add that to my pizza!

After graduating with an LLB in 1994, I continued my studies at Liverpool and completed a Masters in International Law. I had fantastic lecturers and am very grateful that they were patient enough to entertain all my theories. Having received my LLM in 1995 I returned to Malaysia, working with a trustee company as a trust officer. I left the company after my second child was born and I am now a freelance copy editor and both a book and cat hoarder.

What I miss most about Liverpool is walking into the city to wander around the alleys and discover quaint shops, as well as the kebab shop on Renshaw Street. Whilst I haven’t been back to Liverpool since I graduated, I am hoping to return with my family and take a trip down memory lane soon.”

Alumni Memories: ‘Reminiscences of the Department of Music’ by Dr James Dack

Posted on: 7 August 2022 by Dr James Dack in Blog

Our university days are full of some of the most treasured memories of our lifetimes. In the next of our 'Alumni Memories' series, music alumnus Dr James Dack (BA Hons Music 1965, BMus Hons 1968, PhD Music 1976) shares his memories as a music student in the 1960s at the very beginning of the Department of Music.

“When I arrived in Liverpool in October 1965 as one of the first five undergraduates in the newly-formed Department of Music, I found it exciting to be at the beginning of something new: there were no overbearing precedents; this was our Department. The beginnings were modest: in that first year the Department comprised the professor (Professor F. B. R. Smallman, usually known as Basil Smallman and to generations of music students simply as ‘Prof’), a lecturer (Trevor Hold, also a composer), the department secretary, a postgraduate (Anthony ‘Tony’ Cross, engaged in a 2-year M.A.) and ourselves. Yet they were grafted on to a long-established presence of music within the University, evident in 1965 in the University Music Society Choir and Singers, and the professorship itself, the James and Constance Alsop Professorship, established in 1946 to replace the James W. Alsop Lectureship in Music, founded by Constance Alsop in 1924. The professorship had been held (1947-1962) by the distinguished scholar Gerald Abraham and the lectureship (appointed annually 1925-1938) by a succession of prominent figures in music.

“We were housed in no. 82, Bedford Street South, part of an early nineteenth-century terrace: on the ground floor, to the right of the front door, Prof's room and beyond, accessed from under the stairs, the department office; to the left, and extending to the back of the house, the music library, with literature and works of reference in the front portion, music in the rear. On the first floor, two staff offices and, above the library, the lecture-room, with black writing-screen, two Bechstein upright pianos and record-player; behind, a room housing the record collection and a rank of four or five turntables and headsets (this doubled as our student common room); and upstairs in the attic the one-and-only practice-room, with piano. Somewhere in the nether regions of the house was the den of our two formidable Liverpudlian cleaning-ladies, Jean and Maggie, much given to the spreading of liberal amounts of an acrid wax polish on the linoleum (‘Mind my floors!’), buffed up to a slippery shine. During that first year, at least, we regularly cleaned the piano keyboards, put the library shelves in order each Friday afternoon and maintained a rota of evening supervision of the record collection and listening booths. All in all, it seemed quite a family affair, presided over by Prof with an air of paternal benevolence.

“Our section of Bedford Street South was at the very edge of University territory: to step south and turn the corner into Myrtle Street was to cross a distinct boundary into the city itself, that part of it with the surviving grandeur of the 18th-century terraces in the vicinity of the Anglican Cathedral but otherwise run down, if not actually seedy. In the other direction across the Regency elegance of Abercromby Square, taken over as University academic and administrative premises, lay Bedford Street North: on one side the new Student Union (and behind it, forming a unique backdrop to the University, the scarcely completed and eye-catching Roman Catholic Cathedral), on the other, the modern Oceanography and Mathematics buildings and, in 1965, still a remaining fragment of the original terrace of houses, in one of which was the University Bookshop. The impression everywhere was of the new arising from the old: Liverpool, ‘the city of change and challenge’, as outgoing letters were franked at the time. To my youthful eyes unused to a large city, where the old had become derelict and ripe for demolition, it was somewhat unnerving: I was glad of the University bus or the nos. 80 and 86 back to the leafy security of the halls of residence in Mossley Hill - but, as the freshers' Vade mecum issued by the Students' Union warned, ‘Beware of the no. 87: this is a cunning bus’: for it appeared to be going the right way but (it was reputed) deposited one somewhere in the region of Speke (now John Lennon) Airport. At the same time, I found it stimulating and liberating to leave the University precinct for the city centre, to find its very edge at the Pier Head and floating landing-stage, from where Canadian Pacific's last transatlantic liner the Empress of Canada sailed for Montreal during the 1960s. The underlying geography of the city - river-front, rising up the hill to the University - seemed evident, unlike the amorphous spread of an inland city.

“We returned for our second year to find that the Department had acquired next door, no. 80, which afforded much-needed room for expansion: two further lecture-rooms, practice-rooms tucked away in various holes and corners and, in the yard behind, bordered by a wall beyond which ran Back Bedford Street South, a free-standing single-storey ‘studio’ for the rehearsal of chamber music and playing of percussion instruments. Dr (now Professor) Denis McCaldin had joined the staff, together with the much-loved secretary Mollie Burns, who was to be the linchpin of the institution over many years; and some ten or twelve new students: the Department was truly launched.

“It was our good fortune, not recognized by us at the time, to receive next to one-to-one teaching: this, in fact, is the only way to deal with an aspect considered then and for years to come as beyond question in a university curriculum in music, that is, the study of music ‘from within’ by way of, as it was systematized, the daunting duo of ‘harmony and counterpoint’. These (and their close cousin ‘fugue’), together with a broad historical outline of Western ‘art’ music (in the first year ‘Classical’ and ‘Romantic’, in the second ‘Renaissance’ and ‘Baroque’), twentieth-century music, ‘free’ composition, orchestration, aural training and keyboard skills made up a traditional curriculum but there was also new thinking: an emphasis on performance (the requirement to study the piano and a second orchestral instrument, for which teachers were often drawn from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra - in those generous days, fees were paid by the Department - and the presumption that one would participate in musical performance fostered by the Department, with the minimum requirement to be a member of the University Choir or Orchestra); and, in the second year, a course in acoustics for musicians, for which we attended the Department of Building Science, as it was known then. (It should be said that our lecturer in acoustics, Dr Morris Davies, was himself a musician and had at one time directed the University Choir and Singers, until these were taken over by Basil Smallman and Trevor Hold respectively, with the advent of the Department. Morris Davies then founded his Renaissance Music Group, which continues to this day.) With maturity, I have come to regret that I did not make more of my piano lessons with the remarkable Liverpool pianist Douglas Miller (1888-1983), who had studied in Berlin before the First World War with that ‘pianists' pianist’ Leopold Godowsky (1870-1938) and was thereby a link with nineteenth-century pianism, a faint trace of which resides in his entering of Godowsky's peculiar fingerings here and there in some of my piano music. We had the benefit of the free run of a remarkably well-stocked music library, administered remotely and trustingly from the New Arts Library across the road: one filled out a slip for an item to be borrowed, stuck it on a spike on the table by the door, whence slips were periodically collected by a member of library staff; returns (if I remember correctly) were to the table for eventual checking off. Examination throughout was by traditional 3-hour written paper, topped off in the final year by a practical test in the keyboard skills that might be expected of an all-round musician and a viva voce examination. My fourth (B.Mus.) year brought a taste of what can be the lonely path of postgraduate study. One memory of that year is the tutorial tour de force performed by the newly-arrived Dr (now Professor) Michael Talbot as he led me through the intricacies of medieval musical notation and its transcription: I still have his weekly hand-written summaries.

“Many memories are of performances in which I took part. Participation, of course, had its educational purpose, never more so than for a pianist-student such as I was, brought up on the typical teaching diet of Bach's Preludes and Fugues, sonatas by Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven, Schumann, Chopin, Brahms and so on. As a mere beginner on my ‘second instrument’, the 'cello (my teacher was Mr Amos Moore, of the Liverpool Phil), I could not join the orchestra, so the choir it was, where I had scarcely more capability but got by somehow, to discover what it was to sing in some of the staple works of the choral repertory: Bach's cantatas and Mass in B minor, Mozart's Requiem, Bruckner's Mass in E minor (in the amazing acoustic of the Anglican Cathedral), Tippett's A Child of Our Time and more, under the direction of Basil Smallman. One discovery stands out in particular: Haydn's Harmoniemesse. In my undergraduate ignorance, I might have offered, if pressed, some received platitude about Haydn ‘the father of the string quartet’, the composer of symphonies and keyboard sonatas, a forerunner of Mozart and Beethoven; now I was astounded to find that Haydn composed sacred choral music and had written this piece in 1802; moreover, to experience its harmonic and contrapuntal power, and, when it came to final rehearsal and performance, its orchestral richness (‘Harmonie’ is the German term for a wind band or wind section of an orchestra; it refers to the full complement of woodwind, horns and brass in this work). It was a revelation that influenced the course of my academic career. Likewise, it is to this educational broadening of musical experience that I owe memories of participation in Bach's St John Passion and concert performances of Beethoven's Fidelio with the Liverpool Phil conducted by Charles Groves; and in semi-professional staged performances of Mozart's Die Entfüehrung aus dem Serail and Così fan tutte in the theatre of the ‘old’ Student Union conducted by Basil Smallman.

“Other memories are of music I heard as a member of an audience: orchestral concerts, of course, in the Philharmonic Hall, and performances in the University, as in the annual series of Alsop Subscription Concerts, a re-birth of the original Alsop Lectures. To appear smartly dressed was to run the risk of appointment as page-turner, a nerve-wracking role with the potential to cause a disaster. One performance experienced from this perspective comes to mind: the recital given by Basil Smallman (a pianist of professional ability) and the German 'cellist Ludwig Hoelscher, at one point of which I was required, having turned a page at the piano, discreetly to negotiate a floor littered with cables (the recital was being recorded) to turn for the 'cellist and then return to my usual station for the next turn there, all the while holding the musical score in mind in order to keep my place. High points in the calendar were the visits of our ‘quartet-in-residence’, the Allegri String Quartet (Hugh Maguire and David Roth, violins, Patrick Ireland, viola, and Bruno Schreker, 'cello). It was enthralling to observe at close quarters these supremely professional musicians in rehearsal and performance, to have the experience, as the famous description of listening to a string quartet has it, ‘of eavesdropping on the conversation of four intelligent people’. In what sometimes seemed the slow normality of the weeks of term, their visit brought a breath of air from another world.

“Then there are the memories that come to mind as if snapshots from a disordered photograph album: of the first time of approach to Liverpool by train through the succession of dark tunnels, the dripping walls blackened or moss-covered, to arrive in Lime Street Station the immediate feeling ‘I like this place’; the walk from Rathbone Hall down Ibbotson's Lane to the Sefton Park Palm House, where in the first months of the year spring seemed to come early; the launderama in Penny Lane; the peculiar nature of Liverpool graffiti - let two examples suffice: on the wall of a building under demolition in the area of Myrtle Street, white-painted vertical dashes and the words ‘Tear down dotted line’; and on the raised base of the Roman Catholic Cathedral, ‘God bless the Pope and free Bernadette’ (a sentiment of its time and place, if ever there was one); of the sunny morning in June, when we waited with nervous jocularity to be admitted to the examination hall (a redundant church) in Grove Street; of the carefree weeks - long looked forward to - after the exams, when we lay in the sun, drank in the Greenbank bar and enjoyed all kinds of escapades; the Otterspool promenade along the murky brown Mersey; trips to the remote Fiddler's Ferry Inn further upstream; to the Wirral (as the Liverpool expression poetically has it, ‘over the water’) either by the underground from Central Station or ferry from Pier Head (4d - old pence - to cross the Mersey); of the slow advance westward (liturgically), bay by bay, of the neo-Gothic Anglican Cathedral (surely the last time one might see such a gradual construction in the way previous centuries had witnessed the building of the great medieval cathedrals); the ‘time-capsule’ of Speke Hall, on the very edge of the airport; and, from later years in Liverpool, of my local high street of Lark Lane, then with the family bakery ‘Sugar and Spice’ run by mother, father (who always had a floury look) and daughter; Mr Duffy the butcher; the ironmonger's, greengrocer's, florist's and other day-to-day businesses. And memories of much more...

“After nearly nine years in Liverpool (B.A., B.Mus. and Ph.D. on the way to completion) and the growing feeling of having being left behind through the departure of friends and contemporaries, it was time to move on: I was fortunate to secure a place in university music, where, as it turned out, I was to remain for very much longer: the roles of lecturer, senior lecturer and eventually head of department came my way, and the experience of the change in universities and university music over nearly forty years. Curricula in music have altered out of all recognition for university musicians of an older generation, some might argue, to the detriment of traditional knowledge and skills. Given the growth in the number of entrants each year, the advent of the ‘undergraduate market’ (students - and their families - as ‘customers’, paying tuition fees) and, let us face it, a change in what is taught and understood at the pre-university stage, questions had to be asked of even the apparently inviolable parts of the curriculum. In particular, the studies best served by the traditional master-apprentice model of the individual tutorial system came under strain. As a colleague once remarked: ‘How do you teach harmony and counterpoint to forty people? Answer: With a rugby pitch and a megaphone.’ But however loudly one shouted, it proved impossible to deal with the multiple responses. And so some fundamental thinking had to take place on the rationale and efficacy - and, in the new ‘market', the attractiveness and perceived relevance - of the components of a curriculum.

“One lesson learnt: fortunate, indeed, is the university department of music - as distinct from its parallel institution of tertiary education in music, the music college - that has access to a dedicated and purpose-built venue for musical performance. The usual story is of competing and equally valid interests for whatever large space there may be or, if a new building is achieved, of some kind of unhappy compromise. Oddly enough, during my student years at Liverpool, the lack of a concert hall did not disturb me (although it may well have disturbed those seeking to mount performances): the Students' Union Mountford Hall for the large-scale choral and orchestral concerts and various local venues for the chamber orchestral concerts directed by Denis McCaldin seemed satisfactory. But no more than that: how we would have delighted in the facility of the Tung Auditorium!

“The abiding memory, I think, of my time at Liverpool is of a kind of university music now past, having been replaced - I cannot speak of Liverpool now, of course - with something more specialized, fragmented, in some ways more professional (as, for example, in the area of performance: formerly, members of academic staff were expected as a matter of course to take their turn in the direction of choirs and orchestras; now professional expertise is brought in or appointed, with, it must be admitted, more often than not, a rise in standards). Yet I would contend that as a department of music becomes a department of musicology - with external sources of funding high among the factors driving that - so the ethos changes: music is social, scholarship (in the arts, at least) is individual. It lies within the power of musical performance within a university to counteract that fragmentation: that may prove to be one of the most important benefits of the new Auditorium.

“Memories, of course, are subjective: they run the risk of idealizing, even inventing the past. Was it really like that? Just as two historians, working from the same historical data, might produce quite different histories, so do memories depend on the rememberer; everyone's photograph album is different. Yet I would stand by my memories of the early years of the Department of Music as a time of discovery, of making the most of small beginnings, and, from the present perspective over half a century later, of a fortunate undergraduate experience characterized by a certain kind of innocence. When Basil Smallman wrote to me in September 1965 to offer me a place on ‘an entirely new Honours B.A. (Music) course’ (thereby rescuing me from a low point in my academic career, for which I will ever be grateful) he opened the way not only to ‘a really fruitful period of study at this University’ - but also to an eventual store of memories of a lifetime.”

Are you a graduate and have a story to tell? We would love to hear it. Get in touch with alumni@liverpool.ac.uk to share your story

Alumni Memories: 'The Open Air Club'

Posted on: 23 May 2022 by Ernie Savage in Blog

Our University days are full of some of the greatest achievements and most treasured memories of our lifetimes. In the next of our 'Alumni Memories' series, alumnus Ernie Savage (BA Hons Geography 1962) shares the joy of University societies, as many members from the Open Air Club (OAC) of his time continue to meet as the 'OAC Gold' - still going strong 60 years on!

"But Ernie, surely you aren’t a member of the Open Air Club? Isn’t that a rather immoral organisation?”, I was questioned by another resident of Rathbone Hall, where I was a student in the early 1960s. It was partly the name. Some believed it was a nudist organisation, or worse. When it was founded as a rambling and climbing club in the 1930s, the name reflected healthy ideas of living typical of the time.

In the 1960s there was a satirical programme on BBC1 called Not So Much a Programme, More a Way of Life. In many ways this seemed to describe the OAC. In part it was an ordinary club for those outdoor activities, but it was much more. It was a very friendly group and many met their life partners there. In addition to organised hikes and youth hostelling or camping weekends, and the social event held on Fridays during term time, many of us also met for lunch in the Students’ Union and even had breaks from our studies in the Cohen Library to have coffee and a chat in the Union.

It was an exceptionally well-supported society; on a few weekends two coaches were needed to take over a hundred students to one of the National Parks and that was when there were only about a sixth of the number of students that the university has today.

I can recall one Sunday hike when standing on Ashurst Beacon, a 172m hill about 30km from Liverpool, and looking back I could count perhaps fifty intrepid ramblers emerging from the mist to gain the summit, on a hike which ended on Ormskirk railway station. It was a chilly day and we had a short wait for the train so naturally we did an ‘Eightsome Reel’ on the platform – there was a considerable overlap between us and the Folk Dance Society after all!

Few of us were Scottish, but we organised a few days in a Highland Youth hostel for Hogmanay and then we celebrated our release from study with the post exam trip to the Lake District or one of the other National Parks.

It was all too good to say a final "goodbye" to, so some of us began to arrange to meet after graduation. At one point it was advertised as OAPOAC… we were in ours 20s at the time! We now style ourselves OACGOLD. At first pre-children, some of our weekends were in hotels though for many years camping was the norm, but there was a feeling that in our old age we would prefer a little more comfort. Most recently we have discovered HF and have had stays in several of their country houses.

Last October, 24 of us spent a much postponed and rearranged five days at their house in Sedbergh, in the Yorkshire Dales and in the spring, we had a six-day break in Dolgellau. Some were able to reach the summit of Cadair Idris, others contented themselves with valley walks. All of us enjoyed good food, pleasant company and some shared memories, which now stretch over sixty years!"

Are you an alum and have a story to tell? We would love to hear it. Get in touch with alumni@liverpool.ac.uk to share your story.

Veterinary graduate reunited with society scarf 60 years on

Posted on: 10 February 2023 by Julia (daughter of veterinary graduate, Mike Hayes) in Blog

It was like any other visit to the Guild of Students for veterinary student, Mike Hayes as he arrived at the union one evening in 1959. Only he entered the Guild wearing his veterinary school scarf and mistakenly left without it.

Mike would mention his beloved scarf to his family members for the next 60 years. Then in 2022 his daughter, Julia, successfully located a replica scarf to give to her father, now aged 82, at Christmas.

Julia retells the story of how she was able to track down her father’s scarf with the help of the current veterinary student society.

Mike Hayes graduation 1964

“My dad had always dreamed of being a vet and was the first in his family to go to university. He enjoyed his time at Liverpool and was very proud of his vet school scarf. One night he was at the union, and left his scarf. He realised within 15 mins, ran back to find it, but it was gone.

“After working in veterinary practices in Derby and York he moved to Leicester in 1978, and established a successful practice. This expanded to three surgeries, which he developed with his business partner John Borrajo. However, he would talk about his scarf on and off for years, which inspired me to try and find one for him. Searches on eBay and the Liverpool website yielded no results, so I decided to become a super sleuth.

“Over the past few years, I waited for him to mention the scarf and probed for more details on what it looked like - a purple band down the middle, white lines either side. Still unable to find one, I saw that the vet school had an established society and contacted the then-president, Nancy in 2021. Nancy told me that even though the scarves weren't widely available, they were made specially each year for graduates as part of their ceremony. She promised to send me one the following year.

“I was absolutely delighted to receive the scarf the following summer and had to wait until Christmas to give my dad his gift. A few tears were shed by all, with my dad saying 'I was that proud to wear this and I never thought I'd see it again'.”

Thanks to Mike and Julia for sharing their heartwarming story. Are you a graduate and have a story to tell? We would love to hear it. Get in touch with alumni@liverpool.ac.uk to share your story.

Class of 2023 alumna following in her mum’s footsteps

Posted on: 27 June 2024 in Blog

It’s almost that time of year where we celebrate our summer graduates and all they’ve achieved.

For radiography alumna Elle (BSc Hons Diagnostic Radiography 2023), her graduation day was made even more special as she got to celebrate gaining her degree 13 years after her mum - in the same course!

Elle posed for a photograph with her mum, Lisa, outside the Philharmonic Hall in 2010. She returned to the same spot 13 years later to take some more...

Elle celebrated her mum's graduation as a child by trying her cap on for size…

Before wearing her own official dress on her day…

Just like at her mum’s graduation, her family joined the celebrations…

Elle’s nan and grandad outside the Philharmonic Hall.

And her mum, nan and grandad at her graduation meal.

Elle’s mum won an academic award for her performance at Liverpool.

And graduated alongside her best friend Anna. They’re just as close today…

They even work together as sonographers, in the same hospital. Along with Elle…

You can watch Elle’s TikTok here: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellena.daly/photo/7374450766930578720

Thanks to Elle and Lisa for sharing their story! If you’ve got a graduation story to share, please get in touch with the Alumni Relations team at: alumni@liverpool.ac.uk. 

Alumni Memories: Eurovision 1967

Posted on: 18 April 2023 by Development and Alumni Relations Team in Blog

To mark the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest, which this year Liverpool is proudly hosting on behalf of Ukraine, we asked alumni to contact us with their special Eurovision memories.

Patricia Dawson nee Bellerby (1963 BA Hons History) (pictured above) got in touch to tell us about her Eurovision memory from 1967, a significant year for the UK in Eurovision history.

After graduating in 1963, Pat became a History teacher at a secondary school in Cumbria. She remembers fondly a field trip she made with twenty of her 4^th Year (Year 10) students to Hadrian’s Wall in the spring of 1967.

Back then, their experiences were somewhat different to the school trips of today. “We went on the Friday, travelling in the School Meals’ vans. There were no seat belts in those days and no admin to fill in in case of accidents. We also went prepared with our first meal – pies cooked by the Domestic Science department.”

Pat and her students set up their base at the local primary school, close to Hadrian’s Wall, where they had basic school camping gear and slept on the floor.

They spent Saturday exploring the Wall and learning more about Roman history before heading back to their base at the school. That night, as they all settled down to enjoy fish and chips from the local chippy, they located the school’s television and tuned in to watch the Eurovision Song Contest which was being broadcast from Vienna, Austria. It was 8 April 1967, and the UK was about to make history by winning the Contest for the first time.

Pat remembers the excitement as “we watched a barefooted Sandy Shaw win with ‘Puppet on a String’.” Sandy was one of the most successful singers of the 1960s and ‘Puppet on a String’ would go on to become her third No.1 single, following a landslide victory at Eurovision. It became a huge hit across the world, selling more than 4 million copies, and marked the first of the UK’s five victories.

Sandie Shaw performing 'Puppet On A String' at the Eurovision Song Contest. Photograph Rolls Press/Popperfoto, 1967, Vienna. © Courtesy of Getty Images 

Clearly the trip and the evening spent watching Eurovision, made a lasting impression on Pat and her former students. As Pat recalls, “Those pupils are now in their 70s but still write to me about our school trips, and especially Eurovision 1967.” 

P.S. 2023 will mark a special anniversary for Pat, as it will be 60 years since she was awarded her degree. She was the first in her family to go to university and fondly remembers her grandmother, who had left school at 13 to work in a mill in Leeds, coming to her graduation ceremony. And now Pat’s grand-daughter, who is currently studying at the University, is proudly carrying on the family tradition. We'd like to send Pat our congratulations as she marks her diamond graduation anniversary.

Alumni Memories: Eurovision 1998

Posted on: 19 April 2023 by Development and Alumni Relations Team in Blog

In the second of our Alumni Memories Eurovision specials, another of our alumni remembers her favourite Eurovision moment from 1998, and a ground-breaking winner.

Following our call-out for alumni memories, we spoke to Dr Carly Deering (PhD Cultural History 2014), a staff member and huge Eurovision fan, who shared her memories of growing up watching the song contest, and her favourite Eurovision winner from 1998.

“I have so many happy memories of Eurovision going back to when I was a child”, she says. “My family would all sit around the TV with score cards eating snacks from the hosting country. When I moved to Liverpool, we would still do this but remotely, first texting each other then zooming!”

For Carly, an active supporter and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, one of her favourite Eurovision memories was when Dana International won for Israel in 1998 with the song ‘Diva’, written by Yoav Ginai and Tzvika Pick.

As the first trans person to win Eurovision, Dana became a global star overnight and is now considered one of the greatest Eurovision winners. The Guardian, marking the 20^th anniversary of her victory in 2018, described the 1998 contest as “a watershed moment, a major celebration of a trans artist on an international stage”.

Dana has become a cultural icon and in terms of helping achieve representation has led the way for other artists such as Conchita Wurst to share the spotlight, as well as helping cement Eurovision’s reputation as a fun, outgoing, LGBTQ+ friendly event.

As Carly says, “Dana represented everything that Eurovision means to me: fun, glamour and freedom.  She wore a stunning floor-length silver gown and the song was so catchy and feel-good that I still remember the words to this day.”

Alumni Memories: Eurovision 1985

Posted on: 20 April 2023 by Development and Alumni Relations Team in Blog

In another of our alumni Eurovision memories’ series, Dr Sarah Green (BSc Hons Molecular Biology 1998, PhD 2005), University fundraiser and Eurovision superfan, shares her earliest childhood memories of Eurovision.

“I love Eurovision and always have”, says Sarah. Her parents say that, as a two-year-old in 1976, she used to dance around the house singing ‘Save Your Kisses For Me’, the Brotherhood of Man’s entry for the UK that year. “I used to sing it constantly and my parents ended up buying the single so they could at least listen to a version that was in-tune!” she laughs.

‘Save Your Kisses For Me’, which won Eurovision that year, became a worldwide No.1 in many countries, including the UK, where it was the biggest-selling song of the year, and remains one of the biggest-selling Eurovision winners ever.

For many who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s, at a time before the internet and multiple television channels, the BBC’s Eurovision coverage was a highlight of the year for many families, drawing in millions of viewers in the UK and across Europe, during what was a particularly strong period for UK acts.

“I definitely wanted to be in Bucks Fizz”, says Sarah, referring to the iconic UK winners of the 1981 Eurovision Song Contest. “And the first single I bought was Bardo's 1982 UK entry, ‘One Step Further’”. Bardo, who were managed by the same team behind Bucks Fizz, were tipped to win but on the night were only able to manage seventh place.

“But my all-time favourite is ‘Let It Swing’ by Bobbysocks!” says Sarah, which was the Norwegian entry in 1985, and the eventual winner of that year’s competition (pictured below). It was also the first time Norway had won, after a run of particularly disappointing entries which saw them score the now notorious ‘nul points’.

Sarah has remained a committed fan to this day and her enthusiasm has clearly rubbed off on her eldest son who she describes as being “even more obsessed than I am!” Sarah is planning to fully immerse herself in the action this year. “I am so excited that it is coming to Liverpool and I was devastated not to get tickets, but I’ll be hanging out in the city and drinking in the atmosphere. That is unless anyone has a spare ticket they’d like to give me?”

Alumni Memories: Eurovision 2011

Posted on: 24 April 2023 by Development and Alumni Relations Team in Blog

In another of our Alumni Eurovision Memories, alumna and Eurovision superfan, Layla George (BA Hons Sociology and Social Policy 2003), shares her earliest Eurovision memories, and describes the excitement of attending her first Eurovision Song Contest in Dusseldorf in 2011 with partner and fellow alumnus Paul Dudley (BEng Hons Computer Science and Electronic Engineering 2004).

 

“Like many Eurovision fans growing up in the 1980s, the Eurovision Song Contest was a “must-see” moment at home.  My earliest memory is watching Bucks Fizz perform and then four years later Bobbysocks being crowned winners.  In the 1990s, during Ireland’s “golden years”, I started having small Eurovision parties with friends and neighbours, which included the 1997 contest, won by my favourite Eurovision song of all time, Love Shine a Light by Katrina and the Waves.  When the contest was held in Birmingham the following year, I said to my friend, “I HAVE to be in that audience one day!”  I didn’t know how I would make that happen, but it became one of my life’s ambitions. 

When I moved to Liverpool in 2000 to start my degree, I was fortunate to meet some fellow Eurovision fans and continued the tradition of annual Eurovision parties held in our homes, complete with costumes and European-themed food.  One year I dressed as Katie Boyle and my friend as Terry Wogan.  Another year four of us dressed up as Bucks Fizz.

When Germany won the 2010 contest, I knew that this was my chance at last to fulfil a lifelong dream and attend a contest in person.  The following year I flew out to Dusseldorf with my partner Paul, who claimed not to be a Eurovision fan but soon got into the spirit!  Attending a contest in person is an incredible experience where you meet people from all over the world and instantly have something in common.  There is no rivalry, with many fans supporting countries other than their own, or singing songs in different languages, and this makes Eurovision totally unique and special.  I managed to get tickets for the second semi-final and the jury final, and saw Eurovision stars including Blue, Jedward, Lena and Dana International all perform live – truly a dream come true and the moment my love for Eurovision turned into an obsession!

Since that first live contest, I have attended three more contests in person (with my very patient partner Paul!) – Lisbon (2018), Tel Aviv (2019) and Turin (2022).  I have met several contestants and at least three Eurovision winners, including the fabulous Conchita Wurst.  I am a member of OGAE UK, the official Eurovision fan club, and outside of “Eurovision season” we have regular meet-ups and a convention every October.  Like many in the fan club, I also follow other countries’ selection shows which tend to start in the December before the contest.  Eurovision really is a year-round hobby for me!

I am still pinching myself that my adopted home city of Liverpool is hosting this year’s contest.  I plan to make the most of everything going on in the city and meet up with many of my fellow fans who are visiting – and hopefully meet Sonia too!  I am very lucky to be attending all three jury shows and one live semi-final this year, as well as the ‘Turquoise Carpet’ official opening event and the EuroClub.  I also attended the official handover ceremony at St George’s Hall (where I met Rylan!) and the London Eurovision Party this year, and am a member of the University’s Eurovision Working Group.  However, I would like to apologise to my colleagues in Student Recruitment, Admissions and Widening Participation who I think I have driven quite mad with my constant talk of everything Eurovision!”

Alumni Memories: Eurovision 2004

Posted on: 25 April 2023 by Development and Alumni Relations Team in Blog

In another in our Eurovision memories, we spoke to Patrick Clancy from the University’s Development and Alumni team about his favourite Eurovision memory. It involves a previous win for the current holders of the Eurovision crown, Ukraine, on whose behalf Liverpool is hosting this year’s competition.

“Growing up in the 1980s it was hard not to be aware of the bands like Abba and Bucks Fizz who had massive chart success after winning Eurovision,” says Patrick.  “Even though my walls were covered in posters of bands like Sepultura and Metallica, I was always drawn in every year by Eurovision.”

In particular, he remembers what he describes as “the repeatedly fantastic performances of the Irish entries” who won five times in ten years, and who were famously parodied in the 1996 Father Ted episode ‘A Song for Europe.’ In the episode, Father Ted and Father Dougal are representing Ireland with their song ‘My Lovely Horse, which sadly achieves the now notorious honour of receiving ‘nul points.’ Ireland went on to win the competition for real that year, for the seventh time.

“My favourite Eurovision memory,” Patrick continues, “is the success in 2004 of ‘Wild Dances’ by the Ukrainian contestant Ruslana (pictured below), which for me is the perfect Eurovision song – pop sensibilities with a rock-style backing track, full of energy and very danceable with more than a nod to traditional music and melodies.”

It went on to spend 10 consecutive weeks at the top of the charts in Belgium and was the first winning entry since 1999 to be sung partly in a language other than English.  “The Ukrainian language version of the song is something else altogether!” Patrick laughs.

Ruslana marked the first of three wins in the competition for Ukraine, culminating in last year’s win in Turin by Kalush Orchestra with their song ‘Stefania’, and which has resulted in Liverpool now hosting the Eurovision Song Contest on their behalf.

Patrick says, “I’ve been lucky enough to get tickets for the final rehearsal, and I’m really looking forward to spending time in and around the Eurovision village and keeping an eye out for any past winners in the city – a selfie of my family with Ruslana or with any of the previous winners would be fantastic! After the rehearsal, I’ll be heading home with my family to watch the final together on TV at our annual Eurovision party, which is how I think it is best enjoyed!”

Alumni Memories Eurovision Podcast

Posted on: 2 May 2023 by Development and Alumni Relations Team in Blog

In this special one-off podcast, we talk to academic and University of Liverpool alumnus Dr Sam Murray about the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest, which this year is being held in Liverpool on behalf of Ukraine.

As well as discussing his research, we talk about what Eurovision means for the countries and performers taking part, how the competition has been embraced by the LGBTQIA+ community, and, as it heads towards its 70th anniversary in 2026, what the future may hold for the world's longest-running international song contest.

Sloman Loungers 2023 reunion

Posted on: 30 May 2023 by Development and Alumni Relations team in Blog

This spring, the Alumni team was delighted to welcome back the Sloman Loungers, a group of graduates from the late 1960s who named themselves after the Sloman Lounge in the Guild of Students, where they used to spend a lot of time during their university days.

The Sloman Loungers return almost every year and, each time, they visit a different area of the University. This time, the group gathered on campus and began their reunion with a visit to the Garstang Museum. Reunion organiser Peter Dolan noticed that there are parts of the campus that look just the same as they did back then, and yet every time they come back there is something new to discover. He said: “So much has changed and yet so much is familiar! Walking around Abercromby Square everything seemed the same, then suddenly turning a corner there is the Garstang Museum.” The museum used to be housed in Bedford Street and found its new home at 14 Abercromby Square in the late 1960s, just after the group graduated.

The museum’s student volunteers gave the group an insightful tour of the museum’s collection of artefacts from Egypt, Sudan and the Near East. Alumni enjoyed learning about the displays, which included examples of ancient pottery, cuneiform tablets, and a 3500-year-old Egyptian mummy!

After the tour at the Garstang Museum, the group walked to the Central Teaching Laboratories and moved on from Archaeology to Oceanography with a presentation by Professor George Wolff and colleagues, who gave an overview of the Department of Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences and how the subject and the course have developed over the years.

Peter commented: “Many of us studied Oceanography as a module in the Physics course and it was interesting to understand how the subject had evolved since our time. Today it is part of a multidisciplinary department and, with advances in instrumentation, there is a much deeper understanding of the ocean and particularly the role it plays in climate change.”

The visit continued at the Jane Herdman Building, home of the department, where alumni could take a look at the fascinating tidal machine. Peter said: “We finished our tour with an opportunity to see the Bidston Kelvin tidal machine encased in its glass cabinet. It was designed to predict the tides in ports around the world and was built in the 1920s. It is a magnificent piece of equipment and one can only marvel at the ingenuity of those early oceanographers in constructing such a machine.”

The visit was varied and explored two very different and fascinating subjects that have a long academic history at the University, as Peter observed: “Our visit saw just two examples of the University of Liverpool building on the foundations from great academics of earlier times to evolve into the vibrant University it is today. I am sure there are many more examples.”

The reunion continued off-campus, where some attendees finished off the afternoon with “a trip down memory lane with a few pints in the Philharmonic Pub”.

Are you in still in regular contact with peers from your year? If so, let us know! We want to hear your stories about staying connected since your time at the University of Liverpool. Get in touch with the Alumni team via: alumni@liverpool.ac.uk.

John Flamson: Reunion Memory, Class of 1973 Geography alumni find their way back to Liverpool

Posted on: 30 August 2023 by John Flamson in Blog

On 12 July 1973, fresh faced and enthusiastic, they graduated in BA (Hons) and BSc (Hons) Geography. Now, fifty years later, twenty of these graduates – a little less fresh faced but equally enthusiastic – known as Geoggers 73, made their way back to Liverpool to celebrate this significant anniversary.

A few of them had met up over the years and they have recently created mail and WhatsApp groups to keep in touch, but this was a milestone that attracted a greater number for this two-day reunion.

The rendezvous for the first day was the Walker Art Gallery, which set the tone for a walking tour of the city centre taking in some of Liverpool Biennial 2023 installations at St John’s Gardens, the World Museum and Bluecoat. As one wisecrack put it, “This is art, but not as we know it”!  In the evening they were treated to a capacious tasting banquet in Lunya on Hanover Street, where many stories of yesteryear were dished out as freely as the tapas.

On the second day they were given a guided tour of the University’s impressive Garstang Museum by the effervescent student volunteers.  This was followed by a walk around the campus conducted by two engaging Student Ambassadors, including an obligatory group photo outside the Roxby Building where they had all spent so much time.  Much was the same on the campus as they remembered but the numerous new buildings demonstrated how the University had grown over the years. There were no cocktails in the Sphinx bar in their day though!

Their time was rounded off with a magnificent afternoon tea in the Victoria Gallery and Museum, where doggy-bags were in order, such was the quantity of goodies.

A number were staying in the city for a second night and decided to relive their youth in the Cavern.  They were not disappointed.

Indeed, the whole group thoroughly enjoyed their return to the city and the University.  “The city has changed, for the better”.  “All the big buildings like St George’s Hall were black when we were here – now look at them”.  “And Church Street still had cars running down it”.

All were impressed with the University, the help they had received from the Alumni Office, the continuing sense of purpose and the impact it was having on people’s lives and the image of the city. In their closing time at the VGM, the Geoggers reflected on the University’s mission, ‘For Advancement of Learning and Ennoblement of Life’.  All agreed that the University had created enduring friendships and enriched their lives.

Another put it less philosophically, “Fifty years eh?  The hairs are greyer and the knees a bit dodgier – but we’re all still 21 in our heads!”

Memories of Abercromby Square

Posted on: 27 September 2023 in Blog

Abercromby Square holds a special place for many Liverpool alumni, each student may tread a different path, but for generations students, no matter their story, have crossed paths and shared memories in this special place. Read on to hear about what the heart of campus means to our alumni and the role it played in their time here.

Mark still remembers his “final year Geophysics practical’s (1973-74). Ee used Abercromby Square for demonstration of earthquake detection. The idea was to create sound waves by banging metal plates placed on the grass with big hammers, then picking up the echoes travelling through the ground. Happy days!”

Barbara, who studied history in the 1950’s said: “The Geography department in Abercromby Square was my home from home in the late 1950’s. A little old house, with front stairs and back stairs, it provided a warm and convivially place of learning and friendship.”

Mark spoke of how Abercromby Square “brings back so many powerful and good memories, although mainly about walking back and forth endlessly to the Student Union (to check team listings) or the Sports Centre (to complete exhausting training). When I arrived at Liverpool, playing for the university cricket and football teams throughout my time (I was football captain in 76/7) became a central part of my life alongside my degree. I never expected this development and although I completed / received the History/Politics degree (somehow), I would love to go back and take it again now. In '76, the new library was open at the end of the square; it looked like a space ship had landed. Driving off the M62 and onto the ring road today still triggers a deep emotional and indescribable feeling (and a good one) inside me based on those 3 years, 74-77!”

Caroline shared how “12 years ago, I met my first-ever friend from my law course on the path just outside the Sydney Jones Library /Abercromby Square. Very encouraging for me as an international student back then to have received such warm welcome from a local British course mate. 12 years later, we're still very good friends. Time flies!”

Many also shared their memories of days in the sun and happy days celebrating graduations. Liverpool holds a special place in the memories of many of our alumni and friends, to hear from more of our alumni please see here: https://bit.ly/AbercrombySquareMemories

Alumni memories: Liz Holdsworth's swinging sixties journey

Posted on: 16 February 2024 in Blog

In the summer of 1963, when I was just 17, I took A-levels in biology, chemistry and physics, intending to be a doctor.

Further reflection made me realise that I couldn’t cope with people with their eyes hanging out, but I still liked people, so perhaps I could become what was then called a hospital almoner, now a social worker in a hospital.

I received advice that Liverpool was the best place to study social sciences. It was second to the LSE, but I would not be able to get into the latter because of my age.

A new hall of residence called Dale Hall had been opened in Mossley Hill. Amazingly, I had a lovely bedroom and shared a bathroom with only one other girl, who became my closest friend.

Ironically, Dale Hall has been demolished, but some of us were lucky enough to go back for our 50th anniversary to be treated so kindly by staff there, showed around, and treated to a nice meal!

Back then, in the swinging 60s, girls were expected to be back in by 10:30 pm, unless they had a late pass, which had to be requested.  Men were only allowed in our rooms during prescribed “Man hours!”. Interestingly enough, there were no such regulations for the men’s halls!

I’m afraid that social sciences were largely wasted on me as I yearned for facts and information which could be supported by scientific methods.

However, there were other interests, including being on the Guild council, and becoming deputy speaker of the house of debates.

I loved, and still love dancing and the dances every Saturday night at the student union were fabulous with lots of groups coming, including The Who and Manfred Man. The former I seem to remember throwing a lot of cream cakes about.

I was lucky enough to benefit from the British Universities North America Club (BUNAC) and went, at the end of my first year to America where I worked in Yellowstone National Park and travelled 10,000 miles on the greyhound coaches. I recommend it!

What was most memorable about my time in Liverpool was Liverpool itself and the Liverpudlians. So full of humour and fun and kindness.

I was very short-sighted and too vain to wear glasses and often got on the wrong bus because I couldn’t read the number. On one occasion, the driver stopped, and the whole bus was giving me instructions as to where I needed to stand to get to Mossley Hill.

In my third year, I lived on Eardisley Road at the Penny Lane stop. I have a memory of the bus conductor ringing the bell and the whole bus starting to sing Penny Lane!

In the city, as well as the memory of the Cavern, which was open then, my overriding memory is of the striking dockers walking through the city, coming to terms with what was happening with shipping containers, destined to do them out of jobs.

In my third year, I did a placement in the probation service and made visits down by the docks where they were still tenements, and policemen went in threes! I have to say I received nothing but courtesy and politeness and never felt threatened.

I guess, when I got my degree at age 20, I might have been reacting against social sciences in that I applied for Commission in her late Majesty’s, armed forces, and, after a year was a Captain in the WRAC.

Later, after marriage, I became a social worker in a men’s psychiatric prison, HM Prison, Grendon in Buckinghamshire, and then, in my 30s, I retrained as a solicitor.

It was through that job I became involved with an organisation called SFE (Solicitors for the Elderly) specialising in acting for older and vulnerable adults.

I had many years’ experience of acting for people with dementia, or for the families who were supporting them, and realised that on the journey they would be travelling, they would not be alone but would be taking with them, their nearest loved ones and friends, who would all go through the harrowing experience of trying to love and support their loved one with dementia as that person gradually, but inexorably, left them whilst still being alive. This led me to create PALZ UK (Professionals with Alzheimer’s or dementia from other causes) in Shropshire, which has been a highlight for me.

You can read more about Liz’s charity, PALZ UK here.

University alumni celebrate enduring friendship at their 45-year Derby Hall reunion

Posted on: 8 May 2024 in Blog

In April 2024, 20 alumni from Derby Hall Class of 1980/81 came together at the Philharmonic Pub for their 45-year reunion.

Reunion organiser Paul Cornelius (BEng Engineering Science and Industrial Management, 1980) shares an insight into their evening together:

"Friendship is an emotion that is as difficult to define as it is to maintain, particularly with little contact and diverse careers in a global environment.

So, what brought so much enjoyment and amusement to a group of assorted characters at their 45-year reunion? The service and atmosphere at the Philharmonic Dining rooms were magnificent. Being a 2-minute walk from “Ye Cracke” was a bonus for those of us who still had the naivete and stamina of youth. However, it was the relationships built in the late 1970s and early 1980s when we lived together in Derby Hall and played rugby or football for the University of Liverpool. These are the shared experiences that stand the test of time. We owe much to the camaraderie, empathy, and rapport of those formative years which influenced our vocations.

We spent the evening reminiscing through rose-tinted glasses, remembering the absurdity of our behaviours with hilarity and humour, and remembering friends who are no longer with us.

While some of the frailer fraternity opted for a reasonable bedtime, the resilient among us could be found visiting old haunts into the early hours. An exceptional evening was had by ex-students plus wives. The 50-year reunion is already scheduled, though the actuaries tell us we only need a table for 16."

_{Derby Hall Class of 1980/81 2014 Reunion with Gordon Hall, the Warden at Derby Hall when Paul and co. lived there}.

If you would be interested in organising a reunion with your University friends – whether that be old hallmates, coursemates, or sports teammates – contact the Alumni Relations team via alumni@liverpool.ac.uk to discuss how we can support your event.

Celebrating friendship: The Sloman Loungers Class of 1967 Physics reunion

Posted on: 10 May 2024 in Blog

The annual reunion of the Sloman Loungers, a group of Physics graduates from the University of Liverpool’s Class of 1967, took place on Wednesday 20 March.

Led by reunion organiser Dr Bob Allen (BSc Hons Physics 1967, PhD Philosophy 1970), the event brought together alumni for a memorable gathering.

Returning to campus was a nostalgic experience for the Sloman Loungers. They took a tour of the School of Medicine and were amazed by the advancements since their time as students. The highlight of their visit was the free lunchtime concert at The Tung Auditorium, which showcased the cutting-edge acoustics that left them impressed.

Reconnecting with fellow graduates from their cohort was a heartwarming experience. Despite being well-connected through a dedicated WhatsApp group, seeing each other in person reaffirmed the enduring bonds forged over decades. Bob shared some fun facts about the origin of the name Sloman Loungers:

“The name Sloman Loungers originated from the Sloman Lounge, situated in the then-new students' union building (around 1965), approximately where the Guild Shop is located now. In those days, it was a comfortable lounge containing a then-rare large colour TV. Albert Sloman, after whom the lounge was apparently named, held the Gilmour Chair of Spanish and later served as the Dean of the Faculty of Arts from 1953 to 1962."

The reunion wasn’t just about reliving past memories; it also involved new experiences and activities. From enjoying meals at local restaurants to exploring the town hall and attending the lunchtime concert, every moment was cherished by the attendees.

As they reflect on their time together, they express gratitude for the support provided by the University's Development and Alumni Relations Team and hope to contribute to the student fund as a token of appreciation.

Bob said: “I would like to say that the help increasingly being provided by the University alumni department is really good. I hope that the student fund receives donations reflecting this appreciation.”

Looking ahead, the Sloman Loungers plan to continue these annual reunions, with the next one scheduled for March/April next year.

If you would be interested in organising a reunion with your University friends – whether that be old hall mates, course mates, or sports teammates – contact the Alumni Relations team via alumni@liverpool.ac.uk to discuss how we can support your event.

The story of Elaine and Peter Kinsella

Posted on: 30 May 2024 in Blog

Behind one of the UK’s leading Spanish restaurants, Lunya, are two remarkable individuals - Elaine and Peter Kinsella (BSc Hons Psychology 1985).

As a married couple, Elaine and Peter’s journey starts from university classmates to successful entrepreneurs. Their story is not only a tale of love and adventure but also a testament to resilience, entrepreneurship and the power of giving back.

Elaine and Peter’s paths first crossed at the University of Liverpool, where they both pursued degrees in Psychology back in the 1980s. Despite hailing from different backgrounds, Elaine from Sheffield and Peter a local Liverpudlian, their shared academic pursuits laid the foundation for a lifelong bond.

Reflecting on the pivotal moment when he admitted his feelings for Elaine, Peter confessed: “We actually got together when we both left University and we both ended up working in the same daycare centre. It was for people with learning difficulties. And that’s where it took me about three months to have the courage to ask her out.”

Their transition from uni friends to colleagues and partners marked the beginning of a new chapter, one defined by support, shared aspirations and a commitment to each other’s growth.

The turning point in their journey arrived with a lifetime opportunity – the Harkness Fellowship. Amidst the Oxford and Cambridge graduates and many doctors, Peter as a brilliant NHS commissioning manager from the north was awarded the scholarship and went on the course to explore services for adults with learning disabilities in the United States. “Spending time with the best people in our field […] it was astonishing on every level”, Peter recalled this transformative experience abroad. He spent a year in the States along with his wife Elaine and their two children at the time, Louis who was 18 months and Sophie just 6 weeks old.

Upon their return from America, Peter went on to bring about radical changes in the field of community care and took the lead both locally and nationally in developing cutting-edge person-centred community care services for people with learning difficulties. At the time helping close institutions and bringing people back home to their communities. Elaine trained as a teacher and then went on to become an Educational Psychologist, working with children and families in Wirral schools.

Whilst they were busy with their careers and bringing up now 3 children, Peter had always had a smouldering ambition to own a deli and restaurant and sell amazing food to the people of Liverpool. After some time spent in Barcelona and many other places in Spain, they embarked on their next venture, creating Lunya, a vibrant tapas bar and deli in the heart of Liverpool. Drawing inspiration from their travels and culinary explorations, they channelled their passion and expertise into creating an immersive dining experience that celebrates Spanish cuisine and culture.

Establishing Lunya was not without challenges. From securing the perfect location to sourcing authentic ingredients and assembling a team, they encountered numerous obstacles along the way. But guided by a shared vision and powered by entrepreneurship, they kept going, determined to bring their idea to fruition.

However, their journey took an unexpected turn when Elaine was diagnosed with two types of cancer. Thyroid and Myeloma, a blood cancer. The latter one whilst incurable is also treatable, and she is currently in remission. Elaine said: “I was sitting in the hospital, having a stem cell transplant. I thought how can we give back? I’ve been through this terrible treatment and I want to give something back.”

Despite facing personal challenges, Elaine and Peter remained resolute in their commitment to supporting others battling similar health issues. Through initiatives like the Lunya £1 bill initiative, they raised over £100,000 for local and national cancer charities including Merseyside Against Blood Cancers - The Bloom Appeal, a Liverpool-based charity supporting families affected by blood cancer and investing in local facilities and research to find a cure.

As a trustee of the Bloom Appeal, Elaine plays a vital role in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by blood cancers. Her dedication to supporting the community and courageous battle with cancer earned her recognition as the Merseyside Fundraiser of the Year at the BBC Making a Difference Awards.

Elaine and Peter’s continued involvement with Bloom and other local charities, such as Leukaemia & Myeloma Research UK and the Lord Mayor’s Charity, demonstrates their belief in the importance of giving back to the community, and their story inspires us all.

To find out more about The Bloom Appeal, please visit: https://thebloomappeal.org.uk/

Back where it all began: Marine Biology Class of 1978 reunite on the Isle of Man

Posted on: 22 April 2024 by Peter Morgan (BSc Marine Biology, 1978) in Blog

In April 2024, the 1978 Marine Biology cohort came together for a reunion back where it all started: the Isle of Man.

Reunion attendee Peter Morgan (BSc Marine Biology, 1978) shares an insight into their weekend together:

“So, regarding our reunion on at Port Erin on the Isle of Man, this was the fourth time our cohort of eighteen Marine Biology graduates from 1975-78 have got together, and the first time since we met up in the Lake District in 2014. Credit goes to John Anfield (BSc Marine Biology 1978) for taking the lead and doing the lion's share of the organisation. This time we managed to track everyone down thanks to some impressive detective work by Tim Webb (BS Marine Biology 1978) involving ships passenger records and directors listed on Companies House! Twelve of the eighteen made it to Port Erin from 19th to 22nd April; Port Erin is where Liverpool University had its marine laboratory from 1892 until 2006, and where we all spent our final honours year and took our final exams. Many happy and lifelong memories!

Lots of time was spent remembering old times, catching up after many years (in some cases many decades!) and once again enjoying each other's company during walks, steam train rides, many pub drinks, and a semi-formal dinner at the Falcon's Nest Hotel. We were joined by some of our former lecturers, still resident on the Isle of Man, including Andy Brand (the last Professor at the marine laboratory), Richard Hartnoll, and Roger Pullin as well as several other former staff and post graduate students.

Being blessed with excellent weather made this an incredibly special long weekend and we all left with renewed vows to stay connected, to meet up individually and to organise at least one other reunion; perhaps in 2028 which will mark half a century since graduation!”

The weekend included a semi-formal dinner at the Falcon’s Nest Hotel on the island

A special thank you to Peter for getting in touch and sharing an insight into a treasured weekend, and to John and Tim for their efforts in organising the reunion. If you have also enjoyed a recent reunion and would like your story to be featured, share your experience with us via alumni@liv.ac.uk.

If you would be interested in organising a reunion with your University friends – whether that be old hallmates, coursemates, or sports teammates – contact the Alumni Relations team via alumni@liv.ac.uk to discuss how we can support your event.

Veterinary Science Class of 1979 Reunion

Posted on: 30 April 2024 by Tony Collins (BVSc 1979) committee member for the University of Liverpool Veterinary Alumni Association in Blog

Crabwall Manor, Chester, was the venue for the Class of 1979’s annual reunion.

Every year since qualifying, the cohort have met on an annual basis – starting with Ashbourne in 1980. The only years missed were during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-21.

So far, we have limited our venues to delightful locations in England and Wales: Llangollen, Ross-on-Wye, Stratford-upon-Avon, Buxton, Grange-over-Sands, Malvern, and Ludlow being some of our destinations over the years.

We welcomed 43 attendees this year, with numbers bolstered by graduates from close year groups and partners in crime. Such numbers reflect the certainty of a good weekend!

A few of us arrived on the Friday evening to enjoy a meal and a few drinks over the usual stories of college life. On the Saturday morning a small group tried to demonstrate their prowess by setting off on a five-hour bike ride. Rumour has it that this included a pit-stop at a convenient hostelry which allowed several riders to recharge their e-bikes…

Most of our group started to arrive on the Saturday afternoon. However, Faulty Towers sprang to everyone’s mind when the check-in queue grew and grew. The hotel only had one card machine, which only operated intermittently!

Saturday evening brought everyone to the bar for pre-dinner drinks and catch-up time. Indeed, this may be the last year that we all remember what we pre-ordered for our meal!

Sunday morning, the vast majority assembled at Park Gate for 10.30am for what was meant to be a circular walk. All was going well until we discovered that the tide was in and prevented our route back! Despite this slight error in the route planning, we all managed to assemble at The Ship for light refreshments before heading to Leahurst.

Professor Paul Lunn, Dean of the School of Veterinary Sciences, had kindly agreed to meet us here for a tour of the facilities. Leahurst has grown and changed a lot in the last 40 years, and for some of us who were revisiting for the first time since 1979 it was easy to become disorientated! Very few of us could recall where the library was originally situated…

During our tour, Paul talked about his vision for the future of the School of Veterinary Sciences, making comparisons with the students of today to those of our generation. In particular, the use of increased computer technology and advanced equipment available.

Following our tour, we said our fond farewells and many of us planned to meet sooner than April 2025 – as well, we will be attending the School of Veterinary Sciences 120th Anniversary Celebration Ball at St George’s Hall in Liverpool on 26th October 2024.

Many thanks to Peter Stubbington (BVSc 1979) for once again organising a superb weekend, also to Paul Lunn for giving up his Sunday afternoon to show us around Leahurst.

If you would like to join Tony and the Class of 1979 at the School of Veterinary Sciences 120th Anniversary Celebration Ball in October, or organise your own reunion at the event, you can book your tickets or contact the Alumni Relations team to learn more.

You can also join ULVAA on Facebook or LinkedIn, to stay connected with the Veterinary Alumni community.

Celebrating Love, Friendship, and Memories: Stories from University of Liverpool Alumni

Posted on: 13 February 2024 in Blog

As Valentine’s Day approaches, we wanted to share some heartwarming stories from our alumni. These narratives not only celebrate love but also highlight the enduring friendships and cherished memories forged during their time at Liverpool. Sit back, relax and enjoy these wonderful love stories.

Dr Amanda Evans (BSc Hons Biochemistry 1986): From Biochemistry graduate to research pioneer

Amanda Evans takes us on a journey of academic pursuit that began at the University of Liverpool in the 1980s. Graduating with a degree in Biochemistry, Amanda’s time at Liverpool was marked by memorable moments, including her 10-week research placement under the guidance of Jack Pennock (a former member of staff of the Department of Biochemistry who passed away in 2014).

It was during this placement that Amanda found her passion for research, thanks to the mentorship of Jack. Little did she know, Jack would also play a pivotal role in her personal life, inadvertently rekindling a romance with her ex-boyfriend, Dean Evans, who would later become her husband. Amanda’s journey led her to pursue a PhD in Pharmacology and a successful research career, with notable contributions to the field of Immunology.

Paula Ryan (BSc Hons Psychology 2000) and Mike Ryan (BCom Hons 1979): A love story rooted in Liverpool

Photo credit: Humans of Liverpool

Paula and Mike met in 1985 through a mutual friend while she was working at Radio City. The connection was instant and is even stronger today. They both love Liverpool – warm and Cosmopolitan – with wonderful Arts and Music Scene and a great City for Nightlife and Humour. Mike enjoyed doing his BCom at Liverpool University and when Paula was looking for somewhere offering a well-respected Psychology course Liverpool was her first choice. Although they studied there at different times, the friendships and memories from their University days are dearly cherished.

They raised their family in Hoylake and West Kirby – a short train ride away from the City, and they return to Liverpool when Paula’s health allows. Despite life’s challenges their bond remains unwavering, grounded in the love they found amidst the bustling streets of Liverpool.

Xitong Wang (MA Music Industry Studies 2022) and Taige Wang (MSc Building Information Modelling 2022): A Love Born in Liverpool, Flourishing in London

Xitong and Taige’s love story blossomed during their time as students at the University of Liverpool in 2022. From a chance meeting over a meal to graduating side by side, their connection deepened, culminating in marriage and a shared journey to London.

Now settled in the capital city, Xitong and Taige continue to support each other’s aspirations. Taige is pursuing a PhD at UCL, while Xitong is a Guzheng teacher and performer. Their love story shows how strong connections formed in university halls can grow into a lifelong partnership.

Robyn Radcliffe (BA Hons French and Italian 2023): Love Found in LUDS

Robyn’s love story took root in the vibrant community of Liverpool University’s drama society, LUDS. Meeting her boyfriend Joe (BA Hons History and Politics 2023) during their final year of university, their relationship blossomed amidst shared experiences of graduation, holidays, and upcoming trips back to Liverpool.

As they navigate life’s adventures together, Robyn and her boyfriend find solace in their shared love for the University, a place that brought them together and continues to hold a special place in their hearts.

As we celebrate Valentine’s Day, let these heartwarming stories remind us of the power of love, friendship, and cherished memories forged during our time at the University of Liverpool. From chance encounters to lifelong partnerships, our alma mater holds the key to countless tales of love and connection that endure through the years.

If this has inspired you to share your story, please email alumni@liverpool.ac.uk.

Happy Valentine’s Day from the Development and Alumni Relations team!

Diana Powell’s inspiring journey with UK Unplugged

Posted on: 31 May 2024 in Blog

Dr Diana Powell, an honorary fellow at the School of English, has a remarkable journey marked by a passion for education and community engagement.

Her academic background is as diverse as it is impressive, starting with an English Education degree in the USA, where she qualified as a middle and high school teacher. Diana’s teaching career began at an American school in Bangkok, but her academic pursuit brought her to Liverpool for an MA in Victorian Literature, eventually leading to a PhD.

Diana’s teaching tenure includes several undergraduate and continuing education courses. She later transitioned to a role as a Curriculum Manager for Academic Skills at Liverpool International College, achieving the status of Senior Fellow of the HEA. Throughout her career, Diana has been a guiding light for many students, with UK Unplugged having hosted 40 School of the Arts / Politics, Philosophy and Economics interns, five Liverpool John Moores University interns, and numerous volunteers from various disciplines, including Physics, Psychology, the Classics, and Zoology.

In the following article, Diana shares her inspiring journey and the story behind UK Unplugged, an initiative born from personal challenges and a profound understanding of educational needs.

In an age where screens dominate our daily lives, UK Unplugged emerged with a mission to address the increasing concerns of parents about their family's screen time. The initiative promotes a balanced approach that nurtures young people's skills and aspirations, ensuring they are well-equipped for the future.

UK Unplugged was born out of personal adversity and a deep understanding of the educational landscape. Back in 2018, I found myself at a low point, grappling with depression. As I began to recover, volunteering within my community offered a sense of purpose and connection. Parents shared their struggles with managing their children's screen time, and with my background in digital literacy and education, their stories resonated deeply.

Having served as the head of digital literacy at a college, I was aware of UK and US guidelines for technology use, and the difficulty of achieving balance. My research and training highlighted the importance of nurturing essential skills for the future, such as collaboration, problem-solving, and creativity. This realisation was the seed from which UK Unplugged grew.

A pivotal moment for UK Unplugged came during the COVID-19 lockdown. With local volunteers busy with their own families and regular placements shut down, we stepped in to provide University of Liverpool students with meaningful ways to connect with the community. We launched an initiative called the Fairy Troll Post, writing letters to children from the perspective of magical creatures and delivering daily activity challenges and monthly packets of materials. The community response was overwhelmingly positive, and a few teens and university students even joined me in delivering these parcels around the Wirral by bike.

Student volunteers and interns from various disciplines, including Marketing, School of the Arts, Computer Science and Engineering, stepped in and created games, activities, recipes, and how-to videos from their homes in Poland, Cyprus, and Grand Cayman for families in Merseyside. This created a truly magical experience for everyone involved.

_{L: the Space Box created with students from the U of L LASER Society; R: The Earth Friendly Architecture Box}

As parents and children resumed their routines and the demand for daily check-ins decreased, we transitioned from the Fairy Troll Post to developing themed boxes. This shift allowed more time for development and ensured our work remained local and sustainable. Working with students and local makers has been an incredible journey focused on sustainability and originality. Each box takes 3-9 months to create and is a collaborative effort, bringing together diverse skills and experiences to create something unique and valuable for the community.

The ideas for our boxes often come from kids, teens, parents in our community, and experts who approach us with suggestions. This collaborative process has led to a wide range of topics that I would never have thought of on my own. For the students involved, the experience is transformative. They move from concept to design to sales, gaining invaluable skills and enhancing their CVs. Attending launch events and using the boxes with the community allows them to meet the community face-to-face, further enriching their experience.

At the heart of UK Unplugged are our meticulously crafted boxes, each brimming with 10 hours of sustainable, screen-free fun. These boxes are more than just a collection of activities; they're a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity. From cooking to crafting, physical activities to games, every element is thoughtfully designed to engage families in meaningful offline experiences. Based on wellbeing guidelines, we’ve found them to be highly effective with SEND families and young people on the CAMHS waiting list.

What sets our boxes apart is the diverse expertise that goes into their creation. Volunteers from around the globe, including scientists, engineers, artists, and local makers, come together to infuse each box with their passion and knowledge. This collaborative spirit not only ensures quality but also fosters a sense of community across borders and generations.

Our journey with UK Unplugged has been marked by a deep commitment to community engagement. We support the local CAMHS waiting list with sponsored boxes and give away boxes to low-income and SEND families. University students have placements with us, bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the table.

Working with students isn't just about creating boxes; it's about providing them with invaluable real-world experience and skills. From concept design to sales, our volunteers gain hands-on experience that transcends the classroom, preparing them for whatever life throws their way. As they witness the impact of their contributions firsthand, they become champions of our mission, spreading the message of responsible tech usage and holistic development.

UK Unplugged continues to thrive thanks to the passion and dedication of our team, volunteers, and the University of Liverpool students. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected community, fostering digital balance, and empowering the next generation with the skills they need for a successful future.

You can find more information about UK Unplugged on their website or follow them on Instagram, Facebook and X. Grab your own box for your family to explore, or collaborate with them! Join in their mission to bridge communities and foster a balanced digital future.

We’d like to thank Diana for her contributions to the community and for the time she has given sharing her story. With National Volunteers’ Week just around the corner, we recognise how inspirational stories like Diana’s are having a far reaching impact on our communities. Join in the National Volunteers’ Week conversation from 3 – 7 June.

Laura Godfrey-Brazier: How studying in the US boosted my confidence

Posted on: 19 December 2024 in Blog

Laura graduated with a Business Management degree in 2023 and during her studies she studied abroad at Stevens Institute of Technology in New Jersey from August to December 2021.

We caught up with her to hear how her time studying in the US boosted her confidence.

Why did you decide to apply for a global opportunity during your studies? 

Luckily, I always knew that I wanted to take part in a study abroad programme; Growing up in a small village in North Wales, I often felt limited in terms of exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences. Studying abroad presented the perfect chance to not only broaden my horizons but also enhance my confidence and adaptability—skills I knew would be invaluable for both personal growth and my future career. Also, I have always wanted to travel and experience a new culture, and I knew studying abroad would offer the opportunity to travel while enjoying the security of a university environment, making it easier to build friendships and access a strong support network.

When I was researching universities during Sixth Form, I prioritized finding one that combined a strong academic reputation with opportunities for international study. ULMS stood out to me because it offered both an excellent business school and a structured program for global opportunities, making it my top choice. As soon as I started my first year, I was determined to make the most of these opportunities, and I invested time in learning about the destinations available and the application process.

What motivated you to choose the specific university and course for your global experience?

The University of Liverpool Management School offers a wide range of universities to visit for your global experience, allowing you to select three options. I thoroughly researched each institution to find the ones that resonated with me. I knew I wanted to go to the United States, but I hadn’t heard of Stevens Institute of Technology until I discovered it on the global experience page. When I looked into it, I was immediately captivated by the campus, which is located in Hoboken, NJ, right on the Hudson River with stunning views of New York City. With just a 10-minute train ride into Manhattan, I knew this was the place for me. Growing up in a small village in Wales and only ever seeing the city in films, I’d always dreamed of going to New York. I could picture myself grabbing a coffee and studying in a coffee shop in Hoboken. Also, I have always wanted to experience New York at Christmas time, to see the Rockefeller tree, Times Square and the Empire State Building and Steven’s could offer me all of the above! Although I was studying business management, I chose to focus on marketing during my global experience. I was eager to learn about how marketing in the U.S. differs from the UK, and I found the courses to be incredibly interesting.

How did the curriculum and teaching style at the host university differ from your home institution?

I found the American curriculum and teaching style to be quite manageable, giving me plenty of time to enjoy socialising with friends. The campus and classroom experience felt like something straight out of a classic American college film, and every class was engaging. Compared to the UK’s focus on assignments and exams, the US curriculum included more 'pop quizzes' and presentations that directly contributed to your grades. Classes were highly interactive, yet still familiar in structure to what I had experienced in the UK. Instead of large lecture halls, we often had smaller seminar-style classes, which made it much easier to engage with the professor and ask questions. Additionally, there was a strong emphasis on group work, which not only enhanced my learning but also helped me make new friends.

In what ways did this experience enhance your personal development? 

Before my global experience, I lacked a lot of confidence and was quite shy. Moving across the country to a busy city, alone at 19, forced me to face those fears and adapt. I had to push myself to speak up in situations where I would normally stay quiet. My biggest piece of advice to anyone lucky enough to study abroad is to speak to everyone! Even if you don’t feel like it, or don’t get the response you were hoping for, it will help you make connections. For example, on my first day on campus, I decided to ask a group of girls if I could sit with them for lunch. They ended up becoming my best friends, and I spent Thanksgiving with one of their families. I still visit them every year!

This experience had a huge impact on my confidence. In my final year at university, I became a Global Opportunities Ambassador for the University of Liverpool. In that role, I had to speak in front of large groups during open days and lead exchange student sessions. Before studying abroad, I never would have had the confidence to do that!

I was truly thrown in at the deep end—this was my first time traveling alone, and I moved to the U.S. during the pandemic when borders were closed, meaning I couldn’t visit my family. But I adapted and grew in ways I never expected. That experience made me a better version of myself, and I’ll forever be grateful for it.

Did you face any challenges adapting to a new educational system or country and how did you overcome them?

One of my initial worries about studying at an American college was having a roommate—sharing a room with someone 24/7 felt a bit daunting. But once I arrived, my perspective completely changed. I was paired with another British girl, and we hit it off right away. She became my rock throughout the semester, and whenever I needed a dose of British humour, she was always there to provide it!

I also experienced homesickness during my first week, which was something I never expected. I found it hard to leave campus at first because everything felt so overwhelming. But I pushed myself to adapt, get out, and make friends. By the end of that first week, I felt much better, and soon I didn’t want to leave!

As I mentioned earlier, my U.S. educational experience included plenty of presentations, which initially terrified me. However, once I put in the prep work, collaborated with my group, and completed my first few presentations, my confidence grew, and I was ready for the rest.

Although we share the same language, the cultural differences were still noticeable. This wasn’t a negative, though—it was fascinating to immerse myself in the American college experience. From attending sports games to going to fraternity parties and joining campus activities, it was a truly eye-opening experience!

What was the most memorable experience you had during your time abroad? Can you describe a specific moment or event that stood out as the best part of your experience?

One of my most memorable moments was celebrating my first Thanksgiving. By this point in my semester abroad, I had a great group of American friends, and we decided to host a "Friendsgiving" at my friend's apartment. Everyone brought a dish, and we ate until we couldn’t move. Of course, things didn’t go smoothly—we burned the turkey, set off the fire alarm, and even had the Hoboken fire department make an unexpected visit to the apartment!

Afterward, I spent the weekend with my friend’s family at their beautiful beach house in Asharoken, Long Island. They welcomed me into their Thanksgiving celebration with such warmth, and we spent the weekend eating, playing games, and taking morning walks on the beach. They were genuinely curious about the UK, and it was so nice to be part of their family traditions.

And I can’t forget about the fraternities and sororities! My campus had a street called "Frat Row," a row of fraternity houses where we would often meet up with friends and head to a frat party. They were just like the movies— fun and unforgettable! It was definitely an experience I’ll always cherish.

What skills or knowledge did you gain that have been particularly useful in your graduate career? 

I studied business management, but I’ve always been more drawn to the marketing side of things. When selecting my courses for my semester abroad at Stevens, I made sure to focus on marketing-related classes, especially since I was living next to one of the world’s biggest marketing hubs! It was fascinating to learn about American marketing strategies and how they differ from those in the UK. This experience really expanded my understanding of the field and has been invaluable in my graduate career.

One key skill I gained, and something I talk about often, is increased confidence. My semester abroad had a huge impact on my self-assurance, and I truly believe it shaped me. In my current role as a regional operations manager, I frequently attend meetings with major clients where I need to speak up and present ideas. While confidence comes with knowing your stuff, a lot of it stems from my experiences abroad.

I also took a social media analysis class while abroad, and the knowledge I gained from that has been incredibly useful in my graduate role. I now manage all of my company’s social media accounts, and what I learned during that class has played a big part in my success.

What advice would you give to students considering applying for a global opportunity? 

DO IT!! It doesn’t matter where you go, what matters is you’ve got the experience! Studying abroad shows your adaptability and you will stand out in interviews for graduate roles, plus you’ll make lifelong friends from across the world! Because of my study abroad experience, I now have friends in America, Paris, London, Kazakhstan, and Singapore, which I visit at least once a year! Don’t take the opportunity for granted, it was the best experience of my life to date, and I will forever wish I could go back and relive it. 

As for the application process, my advice is to thoroughly research the three universities you’re considering. I spent hours exploring on Google Maps to get a feel for each place!

How can students make the most of their time abroad, both academically and personally?

Academically, give your best effort in your courses, and don't be afraid to ask questions if you're uncertain about something. Having a study abroad experience is valuable, but having that experience paired with strong grades is even more rewarding! While it may not be realistic to never miss a class, aiming to attend consistently helps you get the most out of the academic opportunities available. Time management is crucial—balance your social activities with your academic responsibilities, and make sure you dedicate enough time for studying. A study trip to the library, fuelled by coffee and snacks, can actually be a lot of fun and a great way to focus!

Personally, embrace every opportunity and don’t shy away from new experiences. Remember, no one knows you at your host school, so it’s a perfect chance for a fresh start. Be open to meeting new people, exploring different cultures, and stepping out of your comfort zone. The more you engage with your surroundings, the more rewarding your time abroad will be.

What would you say to a student who is hesitant about applying for an international opportunity? 

If you're feeling hesitant about applying for an international opportunity, I would encourage you to take the leap and go for it! It’s completely normal to feel nervous about stepping out of your comfort zone, but that’s exactly where growth happens. Studying or working abroad opens doors to new experiences, perspectives, and personal development that you can’t get anywhere else. You'll learn more about different cultures, develop independence, and gain skills that will set you apart in the job market.

It’s also worth remembering that you’re not alone in feeling uncertain—many students feel the same way before they go, but once they’re there, they realise how rewarding the experience is. And if you’re worried about logistics or challenges, know that most international programs have great support systems in place to help you adapt and succeed. Stevens had an international student programme; all international/exchange students would meet with our advisor once a week and we all became really good friends!

Take the chance to push past your fears; it might feel intimidating at first, but the benefits are well worth it. Don’t let fear hold you back. 

Reuniting in Liverpool

Posted on: 9 December 2024 in Blog

Sam Ramsay Smith (MBChB 1971) shares an insight into the 50-Year Anniversary Reunion of his cohort. He reflects on the evening, and how the city has changed in the intervening years.

Venta Don Candido

It was 0330h in the morning and I had just driven the 135 kilometres from Malaga airport after an electric four days in England. I was safely home after a brief but stimulating voyage back to my old country.

The impetus had been the 10-yearly reunion of my class who graduated from Liverpool Medical School in 1971, delayed by the Covid pandemic, and arrangements had been continuing for over a year.

Arriving in London

The tall, terraced house in which Ian and Ann live has been my London refuge ever since 1985, but Ian and I go back another 20 years to when we started at Liverpool Medical School in 1965. He remains my oldest medical friend, so it was a delight to embrace him and Ann and sit down by the side of the old red AGA to enjoy a pot of tea and catch-up.

Another of the joys of being with Ian and Ann again is the welcome dinner which Ian invariably prepares, as often as not from within one of his several barbecues. Ann was trying a new recipe, roasting courgettes with feta cheese. It was a good meal and a warm welcome to England.

The knowledge of a warm embrace, a hot cup of tea and some decent roast meat is highly significant. Ian has never disappointed, and that means a great deal to me. Ann, also an ex-anaesthetist, is always stalwart by his side. Even though I am a committed bachelor and voyageur, I take great comfort from these long-standing relationships between my old friends and am always the beneficiary.

Ian and Ann took me up to town for a dose of “Serious Culture”. We surfaced at Tottenham Court Road and were soon treading the streets of Bloomsbury towards Great Russell Street. This was a part of London I had got to know well during my time at the Wellcome Tropical Institute, but I had forgotten how magnificent and austere so many of the buildings were. It was easy to feel a sense of empire and great power in the shadow of these megaliths.

Very soon we were climbing the steps of the British Museum, the most magnificent of all the buildings we had passed, where we spent an illuminating two hours studying the marvels of the Chinese Silk Road exhibition.

Afterwards it was a pleasure to sit at a table in the museum café with a cup of tea, watching humanity walk by. It really was the world on the go, and everyone, old and young from every corner of the world enjoying this important part of Chinese history in total harmony. It was reassuring to see that it was possible for every human to live and work together and so enjoy life.

Euston to Liverpool

The following day we set out for Euston station and the 1140h Aviva train to Liverpool.

Never in my life have I travelled by first class, legally. But today was another first, for that is the way Ian and Ann travel, and a fair few other medics from our year apparently, for halfway up the escalator to the first class lounge a voice behind me said, “would that be Sam?”, and I turned to find Stuart Dombey and Andy Gale and their wives ascending. Then came Cosmo Hallstrom, and Cynthia.

We were a jolly crew, only mildly disappointed when the 1140h train was cancelled. This is now a daily occurrence which British Rail travellers face. The 1240h train left on time and soon we were speeding through Milton Keynes, heading north as I enjoyed my free gin and tonic.

As we sped past the Runcorn bridge, looking down into the murky waters of the River Mersey, I suddenly flashed back 60 years to the first time I had crossed this great grey bridge. In September 1965 after a year under a brilliant African sun, enjoying the myriad and brilliant colours of tropical Africa, that moment had been a severe shock as I surveyed the miles of grey factories and townships under a leaden sky. But today the sun was shining overhead as we approached Liverpool city centre.

As I stepped onto the platform in Lime Street station, I suddenly had an electric thought. It was exactly 59 years to the day when I had first ever set foot in this station, fresh from a year in Africa and about to start my medical studies. This was an epic moment.

The four of us took a taxi to the Hope Street Hotel, and then headed for the Philharmonic pub. There was already a good smattering of old doctors and their partners sitting behind pints of beer. It was a wonderful moment, and hilarious to think that here we all were, doing exactly what we were doing 60 years ago – drinking at the Phil. Even Alex arrived with Maureen, and that was another joyous reunion in the flesh after our years of meeting on WhatsApp.

The men’s bathroom was as impressive as ever. All built in marble, it has become a national tourist attraction. The old leather seats in the lounges are also still extremely comfortable and provide a panoramic view of the highly decorated ceilings and chandeliers.

As I sat enjoying the happy ambiance I noticed a strange thing. Of course, every one of us had changed physically over the years, most notably the face. That was inarguable. But what I realised had not changed were the voices, the postures and deportment and the sense of humour of my comrades. I thought that was interesting. To me it was as though the body may decay but the spirit lives on.

All in all, it was a perfect homecoming to my alma mater. A group of us decided to dilute our beery intake with a curry. One could say, “How very predictable!”, and you would not be wrong. Back in the swinging 60s a fiery rat curry was de rigeur after drinking.

The Spice Bloom, just up Myrtle Street and a quick stagger from the Hope St Hotel, was revolutionary. It had only been open for three months and was a delight to enter. It was a very spacious restaurant, set on two floors, and was one of the most colourful I have ever been inside. Soon around 12 of us were seated behind large glasses of Cobra beer at two tables groaning with poppadom’s, nan breads and dishes of every curry imaginable.

We were all having a splendid time reliving our past. We were even serenaded by Pete Lavelle singing “In my Liverpool home” as we ate, exactly as so often had happened in times past.

The following morning there was another joyous reunion in the breakfast salon, as we sat over our full English breakfasts, cooked in front of our eyes.

Amazingly, it was another blue-sky day, with white clouds bobbing over the Catholic cathedral making a pretty picture as I descended Bold Street, passing St Luke’s, the roofless, bombed out church, now growing a jungle of plants within its walls. I was on my way to the Pier Head to take a photo of the statue of the Beatles.

As my legs were now playing up, I was pleased to find a taxi rank and jumped into the first taxi. Jason, the driver was a real Scouser with the accent to go with his sense of humour. He was impressed when I told him I had played in the original Cavern Club, and he also knew all about the Wookey Hollow night club, where I almost became famous in 1972.

“Of course, I’ll take you to The Beatles statue”, he said, and then we were off towards the Pier Head and the building which has always been an icon of British maritime power and influence.

When we arrived, Jason called out “let me take one of you!” and bounded out of his taxi. Jason started taking photos of me, looking like that 5th Beatle, while the tourists were wondering whether to include me or not. It was a triumphant moment, and I am grateful to Jason for the photos he took.

Fiesta at The Hope

The evening fiesta began with glasses of fizz in the big function room on the fifth floor, from which there were magnificent views of the Liverpool skyline, under a clear blue sky. Averil was there, surrounded by her many acolytes. So was Professor Hazel Scott, the current Dean of the Medical School, who was to be my personal guest, plus around 60 medics and their partners.

The Dean sat next to me at the table, and I asked her how she would like to be called, to which she replied, Hazel. I laughed when I thought of what Dr Jack Leggate would have replied in 1965, for it would certainly not have been ‘Jack’. He was one of the old school, an ex-missionary and a man of impeccable character, respected by us all, and treated with some reverence. At that time, the idea of a lady Dean would have been unthinkable. How wonderful can be those winds of change.

When we were all seated comfortably, I said to Hazel, “I want to ask you a serious question. Please wait for half a minute before you answer”, and she agreed. “After seven years as Dean, what today is your single greatest problem?”, I asked her. After a short pause, she answered, “It is managing the daily concerns of so many students”, she replied. “Most of them are related to financial problems”. And that got me thinking.

The rest of the evening passed in a bit of a blur as there was so much going on. After Averil’s exceptionally good speech the entertainment began. I sang a couple of songs, including “The One-Eyed Trouser Snake”, which always goes down well. Then came the medics song and others. All the while a loop of photos of our student days was scrolling on a big screen, something that Greg Richardson had fixed up.

It turned out that one of our cheerful bartenders, Rosie, was a second-year medical student in her spare time, and I joyously dedicated one of my songs to her and had everyone clapping for her. I’d like to know what she thought of all of us geriatric doctors and our childish antics.

The next morning as I stood in the hotel foyer waiting for our taxi, Averil arrived with a young girl in tow. “This is Catherine, my granddaughter. She is a second year student”.

“Do you know Rosie?” I asked Catherine after our introductory embrace. It was then that she explained to me that her class had 320 members, something I had not appreciated. My own class had just over 100 members, and I reckon I still only know about half of them.

Well, what a delight to have met not one, but two aspiring young medical students.

Heading home

Not only was there an 1140h train, but it left on time.

Then we were in Euston station again, heading for the Victoria line south. I parted company with Ian and Ann at Victoria, and I was sad to say goodbye to these two old friends with whom I had so happily shared the last four days. But I am sure we shall meet again – and there is always WhatsApp meanwhile.

Conclusion

It has been a most enlightening and encouraging voyage of discovery. If I had to take just one memory from this unique occasion, it would be the unmeasurable sense of good fellowship amongst all 60 of us which our early years of excellent education had made possible.

I hope that this will inspire a new generation of medical students to reunite as the years go by.

Celebrating 10 Years of the Liverpool Women in Science and Engineering Network

Posted on: 7 November 2024 by Butul Taufik (Civil Engineering 2014) in Blog

The Liverpool Women in Science and Engineering (LivWiSE) Network celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2024. Established to support women in STEM at the University of Liverpool, LivWiSE has grown into a network that connects, empowers, and celebrates women in science and engineering. To commemorate this milestone, LivWiSE invites graduates to participate in celebratory events, share their career journeys as role models, and help inspire the next generation of women in STEM.

Read on to hear from LivWiSE alumna Butul Taufik about her STEM career journey and discover ways to get involved in LivWiSE’s 10th-anniversary celebrations.

Butul graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2013 with a master’s in Civil Engineering. Starting out in engineering, Butul quickly transitioned to finance, joining an investment bank as an FX Options Trader—a role that led to exciting opportunities across Dubai, Vietnam, Singapore, China, Jordan, and finally back to London.

Now based in London’s financial sector, Butul combines global finance expertise with a passion for giving back. Leveraging engineering skills to design and fundraise, Butul helps build libraries in underserved communities and serves as an ambassador for international youth programs and governance networks, promoting education and leadership worldwide, also promoting STEM.

What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?

I chose A-levels based on subjects I enjoyed, figuring that passion would keep me motivated to study, Engineering wasn’t even on my radar, despite my love for creativity, maths, and physics, until two women engineers visited our school. Their talk opened my eyes to engineering as a creative, challenging field that fit my interests perfectly—and showed me it was a space for women too.

What key skills did you learn at university? 

At university, I first and foremost learned how to connect and communicate with all kinds of people. It was intense yet enjoyable, exposing me to diverse customs, cultures, and educational backgrounds from around the world. I also learned to balance my time, making space for what I enjoy while staying on top of my studies. Most importantly, I discovered a lot about myself—what I’m passionate about and where my strengths lie.

What jobs have you had during your career?

I’m a senior analyst at an insurance company, where I get to combine my maths and computer skills with the attention to detail, I developed while studying engineering. I really enjoy that the role also has a strong people element—I work with a variety of companies and teams, which keeps things interesting and dynamic.

What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?

I am a With-Profit Fund Expert. 

What has been your most exciting project or career role?

Outside of work, one of my most rewarding projects has been designing and building libraries in underserved areas. With friends, I co-founded an NGO to raise funds and build libraries internationally, supporting literacy in deprived schools. I loved applying my engineering skills to bring these libraries to life and seeing the impact firsthand—especially watching kids explore computers for the first time and really dive into learning.

What are your top tips for working in your industry/sector?

A key tip for working in finance or any industry is to stay curious and always be willing to learn. The industry changes quickly, and the best way to grow is by keeping up with trends, learning new tools, and asking questions. Curiosity will keep you adaptable and ready to take on new challenges, which is invaluable. The latest trend for example being AI.

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

Change. People well-intentionally tell us ‘don’t ever change,’ but this is limiting when we are capable of so much.

Any advice you’d like to share?

My best advice is that it’s okay to change your path to reach your goals. We’re often told to stick to one road, but I’ve taken different routes many times—from my school subjects to my degree choice, to a career that goes beyond my studies. Even within my work, I’ve shifted directions more than once. The world is full of possibilities, and we shouldn’t limit ourselves to just one path.

Why are you passionate about your subject/career/STEM?

I’m passionate about encouraging girls to pursue STEM, as growing up, it felt like everything fell into “blue” or “pink” categories. Even in my engineering program, I was one of only about five women in a class of 200. I want to help change that and make sure girls know that there are so many options available to us beyond those traditional boundaries. This is why I have done multiple talks and projects around this.

Join LivWiSE for an upcoming event

As they celebrate 10 years, LivWiSE invites members of the community to join them for upcoming events and initiatives to honour women in STEM. Join them on Thursday 14 November 2024 for a lively networking social open to staff, students, and alumni, you can book your tickets here. On Thursday 5 December 2024 they will also be hosting their annual Christmas talk with University of Liverpool guest speakers reflecting on LivWiSE’s achievements, you can book your tickets here.

Get involved

2024 marks the ten-year anniversary of LivWiSE (Liverpool Women in Science and Engineering). To celebrate this occasion, we are delighted to announce the launch of the LivWiSE Thank You Awards!
 
The LivWiSE Thank You Awards are an opportunity to celebrate women and non-binary contributions to STEMM and to thank the people and allies who have supported and promoted their work.
These awards are open to everyone. Whether you’re a student, academic, staff, alumni, teacher, technician, pupil, or work professionally with or in STEMM, we look forward to receiving your nomination.
 
Please nominate someone by completing our short nomination form or emailing livwise@liverpool.ac.uk with their name, email address and why you want to thank them.
Nominations are now open and close 5pm Tuesday, 3 December 2024.

The LivWiSE team are also excited to introduce a new LinkedIn page as a dedicated space for networking, mentorship, and updates.

Finally, we’d like to encourage alumni working in STEM to submit their own role model profiles like Butul’s. By sharing your story, achievements, and advice, you can inspire the next generation of women in STEM. Reach out to us if you’re interested in being featured!

International Day of Veterinary Medicine: Advancing canine lymphoma research

Posted on: 6 December 2024 in Blog

To celebrate International Day of Veterinary Medicine on the 9 December, we'd like to say a special thank you to dog owner organisation, Zoe’s Journey UK for the recent gift to the School of Veterinary Science to support research on canine lymphoma.

Earlier this year, Zoe’s Journey made a donation to aid canine cancer research and we are thrilled to have received an additional donation to aid research on using artificial intelligence to improve the diagnosis of canine lymphoma.

Professor Lorenzo Ressel, Head of the Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology, who received the funding, expressed his gratitude and said: “I extend my thanks to Jayne and her team for this donation and wish them continued success in their fundraising efforts for canine cancer research.

“The use of artificial intelligence in diagnostics represents a promising future application, though it poses challenges today. With this project, we aim to explore the feasibility of using neural networks for diagnosing and classifying lymphoma in dogs.”

More about Zoe's Journey

Golden retriever Zoe meant the world to her owner Jayne, so when her furry friend was diagnosed with stage 3 lymphoma cancer Jayne was naturally heartbroken. Despite her diagnosis, Zoe beat all odds and after undergoing rounds of chemotherapy she went on to become cancer-free. Zoe lived a happy life and passed away peacefully of old age in 2016.

After Zoe's diagnosis, Jayne sought to make a difference for dogs living with cancer and set up Zoe's Journey UK to raise funds for the Animal Health Trust, which has a dedicated cancer research unit.

Cancer is the leading cause of death for dogs, approximately one in three dogs will develop cancer. As part of their mission to help dogs and their owners, Zoe's Journey kindly donated to support the University of Liverpool's School of Veterinary Science's research into canine cancer and preventing the adverse effects sometimes experienced by dogs receiving chemotherapy for their cancer.

A huge thank you to Zoe's Journey for their support.

Fundraising: Spotlight on Dr Michael Cearns, Kevin O'Riordan Brain Cancer Research Fellow

Posted on: 15 November 2022 by Michael Cearns in Blog

Michael recently took up his new post as PhD Fellow for the University’s ground-breaking immunotherapy research which is investigating potential new treatments for glioblastoma, the most common type of primary brain cancer.

The PhD is named for Kevin O’Riordan who sadly died from brain cancer in 2020. Kevin’s wife Maria Gisbert Sorolla and family are raising funds as part of their Seven4Kevin campaign, alongside other families affected by brain cancer who are fundraising for the glioblastoma fund.

Immunotherapy is a new type of treatment that manipulates the body’s own immune system into fighting cancer. Michael will be working alongside researchers at the University of Liverpool and The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust to study the response in long-term survivors and compare the results with those patients who do not respond to treatment. 

We chatted with Michael to gain an insight into the research he will be undertaking, discuss what drew him to neurosurgery and find out how music helps him decompress from the day-to-day stresses of his job.

Q. Congratulations on your appointment as the Kevin O’Riordan Brain Cancer Research Fellow. Can you tell us a little more about the project and the research you’ll be undertaking?

This research is in the field of immunotherapy, which is a series of treatments that aim to use the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Immunotherapies have been used very successfully in other cancers, such as skin cancer, but when it has been trialled in brain cancer, results have been very disappointing. We know that if you look at a cancerous brain tumour such as glioblastoma under the microscope, at least 30% of it is made up of the body’s immune cells – and the cancer has ways of switching these off so they don’t attack it. In this project I’ll be taking samples of brain tumours from our patients who have surgery, and I’ll be trying to learn about how these immune cells behave. If we can understand what types of immune cell exist where in the tumour, we’re hopeful that we can find ways of exploiting them to attack the tumour, and can eventually trial these treatments in our patients.

Q. What led you to a career in neurosurgery?

I was always fascinated by the brain being the ‘seat of the soul’, containing the essence of everything it is to be who we are. I think diseases that affect the brain take something very powerful away something from you, and I felt driven to help people affected by those problems. During my medical training I came to realise how much I enjoyed practical tasks, and that I might have an affinity for surgery. Neurosurgery combined all this together and gives me the ability to do something that is endlessly fascinating and really affects people.

Q. Are you able to say a little more about immunotherapy as a treatment and how it could help patients?

Immunotherapy is a catch-all term for a lot of types of treatment that can target the immune system in cancer. There are drugs called PD-1 blockers that aim to prevent the cancer from ‘switching off’ immune cells – these haven’t shown great results so far in brain tumours. But there are lots of other approaches – like modifying people’s immune cells so they attack the cancer, or making anti-cancer vaccines. We need this more than ever in brain cancer – the best treatments we have for glioblastoma have been in place for nearly 20 years and on average patients don’t survive much more than a year after diagnosis. If we could find a way of making an immunotherapy work for glioblastoma, this would have huge implications for these patients and their families.

Q. What excites you about the research?

When someone has glioblastoma, surgery is really important but can only take them so far. The hardest part of my job is communicating the realities of this disease to my patients, its terrible prognosis – it makes me feel powerless to help them. I’m excited for a time when there can be some options for these patients. If we could even create some hope, that would be truly rewarding.

Q. Aside from your day job, you're an accomplished musician, is that right? What do you enjoy about music?

That’s right – I was classically trained to begin with, but for the most part I’m a jazz pianist nowadays. I also play in a band that does more popular stuff for weddings and other private events. I’m a bit of a nerd when it comes to music and I’m drawn to the technical aspects of how music works, but I love seeing a crowd get a kick out of my playing too. So many people value music in one form or another that I end up connecting with my patients about it all the time. I know Kevin was really into music – it sounds like something we have in common.

Q. A number of our medical alumni have described the way in which music has helped them decompress from their stressful clinical careers. Has that been the case for you?

Definitely – it feels like a completely different world from my day job. Neurosurgical training isn’t easy – long shifts, high-stress emergency operations, delivering life-altering news to people, getting home and still feeling ‘switched on’. Getting on a piano or up on stage is a way to get perspective on all that and find ways of expressing what’s going on. I think it’s really important to have something like that.

Q. And finally, is there anything you're looking forward to doing while you're in Liverpool?

I already know Liverpool to be a great and historic city, having grown up not too far away. I’m looking forward to rediscovering it and seeing how it’s changed. From a research point of view, I’m quite hopeful I can make the links and collaborations I need to carry on this good work for the benefit of patients in the future.

Find out more about our Glioblastoma campaign, and read Kevin O’Riordan’s story as well as stories from other families affected by brain cancer.

Three ways to support students this #GivingTuesday

Posted on: 29 November 2022 by Development and Alumni Relations team in Blog

Giving Tuesday is a global day of generosity when millions of people come together each year to give, collaborate and celebrate kindness.

Taking place on Tuesday 29 November, during a time which focuses on spending, Giving Tuesday is a chance to shine a light on giving back to important causes.

This year, our focus is supporting students through one of the most difficult winters.

Through the Student Fund, we will be supporting some of the hardest hit students. These include students who are from low-income backgrounds, care-leavers or those estranged from their families. Students with caring responsibilities who can’t work because they might be providing care to a disabled or sick family member. Asylum seekers feeling conflict and disaster worldwide, who haven’t got anyone else to rely on in the UK. Mature students trying to support a family, alongside bettering themselves and their children’s futures.

You can help support students like Julia.

Julia, a second year Law student was in receipt of a grant from the Student Fund, said: “I felt so relieved. I was able to fill the fridge, get my laundry credit and most importantly finally not stress about my living conditions. The support was, and still is, life changing for me."

This year, more and more students are reaching out for support. This is of course, a challenging time for so many and if you are in a position to do so, please consider making a gift to the Student Fund. Your help will ensure no student is left behind in the face of mounting challenges this year.

Your support will help fund:

• emergency grants for students facing unexpected financial hardship
• scholarships and bursaries for students who would otherwise miss out
• support for health and wellbeing, skills development and more.

Three things you can do right now to support a student this #GivingTuesday:

• Make a gift, of any size, in support of the Student Fund today
  (Tax-efficient giving can make your generosity go even further, please take a look at our further information on overseas donations here: https://chapel-yorkusfoundation.org/#donate)
• Make a regular gift to help provide long-term support and opportunities to all students
• Sharing news of this campaign with your networks using the hashtag #LivUniStudentFund and link: https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/giving/student-fund/

The 2022 Alumni Christmas Gift Guide

Posted on: 7 December 2022 by Development and Alumni Relations team in Blog

Are you looking for some Christmas gift inspiration? Why not support your fellow graduate community and shop their small businesses?

We’ve compiled a handy list so you browse all your fantastic alumni community has to offer, listed by category and in alphabetical order by graduate surname. Take a look!

Food and Drink

Love Cocoa 

James Cadbury (BA Hons Marketing 2007)

Green Bike Food

Tom Daniels (BA Hons Business Management with Year in Industry 2019)

Tea with Intention

Emma Fitzgerald (BSc Hons Genetics 2003)

Sitoni’s Kitchen

Sandy Gill (BA Hons Business Economics 2019)

Meon Valley Cider

Charlotte Johnson (BEng Hons Civil Engineering 1980)

Lunya

Elaine Kinsella (BSc Hons Psychology 1985) and Peter Kinsella (BSc Hons Psychology 1985)

Brew Tea Company

Phil Kirby (BA Hons Financial Economics 2004)

Malt of the Earth

Tom Mills (BA Hons Architecture 2011)

Decent Donuts

Anthony Polanowski (BA Business Management student)

Gravity Gin

Ant Ryan (BSc Hons Chemistry 1998)

The Fruit Graduates

Alif Roslan (BA Hons Business Management 2020)

Health and Beauty

Naturally Tribal Skincare

Shalom Lloyd (MBA 2010)

Pink Cloud Beauty

Suzanne Wong (BA Hons Marketing 2009)

Fashion

Koi Footwear

Uzair Ahmad (BA Hons Law and Business 2015)

Boyds of Bedford

Jessica Answer (BSc Hons Product Design with Multimedia 2008)

Navy Grey

Rachel Carvell-Spedding (MBChB 1987)

Helen Chatterton Textiles

Helen Chatterton (Classical Studies 2007)

304 Clothing

Sean Cotter, (BSc Hons Biochemistry 2006) and David Michael Powell (BA Hons Architecture 2011)

Eshemg

Ling Chen (MSc Management 2015)

A special 30% discount on all range customised shoes order is available to alumni. Please email: 553454423@qq.com. 

Emma Customs

Emma Cullingford (BA Marketing with Industry student)

Trunk

Tom Darlow (BA Hons Marketing 2010)

Lazuli Label

Sarah Guenther (LLB with Business 2019)

Sosander

Ali Hall (BA Hons English and Literature 1996)

Make Thread

Sarah O’Brien (MBA 2018) and Katie Roche (BA Business Studies with a Year in Industry 2014, MBA 2018)

Pinkkees

Faith Osiobe (MSc Global Human Resources Management 2011)

Aruna Seth

Aruna Seth (Combined Honours 2003)

Silk Fred

Emma Watkinson (BA Hons English Language & Literature 2008)

Wicker Wings

James Yu (BA Hons Business Economics 2013)

Jewellery

Laura Bond

Laura Bond (BA Hons English Language and Literature)

Juliet’s Lover

Kailun Zhang (BA Hons International Politics & Policy 2019)

Baby

Peachi Baby

Rosie Brown (BA Hons Geography for Management 2010)

Dear Bump

Emma Jarvis (MBA 2017)

Home

Hannah Arhinful Art

Hannah Arhinful (MSc Research Methods In Psychology 2018)

Clearance Outlet

Stuart Black (MRes Biomedical Science & Translational Medicine 2017)

Shared Earth

Avantika Caprihan (MBA 2001)

Paul Curtis Artwork

Paul Curtis (BSc Hons Geology & Physical Geography 2000)

VEO

Joe Darwen (BA Hons Popular Music 2007)

The Wholeleaf Company

Adejare Doherty (LLB Hons 2002)

Kaneo Crackers

Lucy Ewles (Graduates Into Employment 2006)

Little Sky Arts

Radka Hostasova (MA Arts Philosophy & Cultural Institutions 2021)

Becca's Artsy Corner

Becca Lim (LLB Hons 2020)

Termeh Rug

Moha J Mahani (BEng Hons Civil Engineering 2016)

Sustain Furniture

James Mather (BA Hons Architecture 2006)

Miniml Refills

Scott Rudd (BA Hons Business Studies 2016)

The Singh Twins Artwork

The Singh Twins

Cote d’Azur Plants and Flower - Shanghai

Joanna You (MSc Human Resources Management 2014)

Alumni will enjoy a 10% discount on all handcrafted flower gifts and all flower arrangement and Christmas DIY activities at Joanna’s studio in Shanghai. Please contact Joanna You: 719200942@qq.com. 

Pets

Pets Purest

Oliver Bristowe (BA Hons Business Economics)

The Original Dog Bakery

Eilish Clarke, (BA Hons Business Studs with Year in Industry 2015)

Nood Pet Food

Laura Fielding (MESci Geology & Physical Geography 2009)

Experiences

Troy Hawke Tour

Milo McCabe (BA Hons Psychology 1998)

Sheel Cooks

Sheel Patel (BA Hons Ancient History & Archaeology 1995)

Flour Will Fly

Paola Paulucci (BA Hons Marketing 2014)

Fitness

One Body LDN

Rebecca Bossick (BSc Hons Physiotherapy 2012)

If you are a Liverpool graduate with a business, or know someone who is, please email alumni@liverpool.ac.uk with your details to be included in our Alumni Christmas Gift Guide.

Welcome Week 2024

Posted on: 20 September 2024 by University of Liverpool Alumni Relations team in Blog

We welcomed our new students to the University in early September at our annual Welcome Fair and told them about all the benefits of being a future University of Liverpool graduate.

We asked our, you, our graduates, to share with us a piece of advice that you wish someone would have told you before starting at the University. And you responded with some lovely messages for our new students. They loved reading your messages and taking your advice with them as they embarked on their journey at Liverpool.

We also shared with them information about our LivUni mentors programme, which provides students with the opportunity to be informally mentored by our graduates.

Other teams from across the University, such as Careers and Student Support and the Library teams were also there to welcome the students and tell them how they can get support and make the most of all Liverpool has to offer.

I'm sure you'll join us in sending a huge warm welcome to our new students and wishing them the best of luck at Liverpool.

World Donut Day: Anthony Polanowski

Posted on: 7 June 2024 by Anthony Polanowski in Blog

To celebrate World Donut Day on 7 June, we are highlighting Anthony Polanowski (Business Management Class of 2023 graduate) who started his donut business during lockdown as a student and since then, has gone from strength to strength.

“I started my business during the first lock-down from my mum’s kitchen. At first, it was simply a novelty as to whether I could create a decent looking donut. – and after several failed attempts, I eventually mastered the technique. After some encourage from friends and family, I posted a few pictures on social media and people were instantly interested and placed orders. As a student with a part-time job, it was difficult to find the balance of education, employment and now fulfilling customers’ orders which kept growing.

I reached out to Alison Pountney, Start-up and Entrepreneurship Consultant within the University who immediately showed enthusiasm and introduced me to various schemes and offered guidance and support. The University enabled me to pitch for Design Your Future which has helped accelerate and strengthen my business through some funding. I have also been lucky enough to join LCR Founders which has enabled me to network and be around like-minded people within a safe and fun environment. I also volunteer as a guest speaker on panel events and interact with students and graduates regularly, to talk to them and show them that anything is possible if you never give up.

While my Decent Donuts shop gained popularity, I recognized the potential for expansion. With the help from the University’s Start-up Team, I was able to trade on campus on many occasions including the Part-Time Jobs Fair and the Employability Day. Through this opportunity I was able to take our sweet treats directly to my fellow students on campus.

With a vision of becoming the go-to caterer for university events, I expanded my offerings to include a diverse range of catering services. We provide options for everything from casual gatherings to formal events. I started with little experience, no financial backing and was able to create a successful business.”

The University has not only provided me with so many opportunities but also a support network and an environment filled with other inspiring and entrepreneurial students, something that I am forever grateful for.

If you are a graduate who is looking to start a new enterprise or build entrepreneurial skills to be used in employment, the Careers and Employability team can help you along the way. You can find out more about what enterprise is, how to set up a business or pitch an idea, hear from inspiring speakers at our enterprise programmes and careers events, and be on the lookout for enterprise competitions and challenges to help you turn your ideas into reality.

**Blog taken from the Careers and Employability Website

Celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week 2024

Posted on: 20 November 2024 by Rebecca Black (Business Economics, 2021) in Blog

As part of Global Entrepreneurship Week, we spoke with Rebecca Black, a 2021 Business Economics graduate and the Co-Founder of Calm Collective Co. In this interview, Rebecca shares the story behind her journey to establish Calm Collective Co, a brand that champions innovation and sustainability at its core. With a passion for creating meaningful impact, she discusses her approach to building a business that aligns with her values, offering invaluable insights and practical advice to students and recent graduates eager to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys.

What inspired you to start Calm Collective Co, and how did you identify the gap in the market for anxiety-focused jewellery?

I’ve always been a skin picker whenever I feel anxious, and when I started my corporate job, I was really embarrassed by the way my hands looked. I then discovered fidget rings on Amazon, but they were all very childish designs and terrible quality, so I decided to see if I could do it better.

Why did you decide to have your business focus on spreading awareness and normalising mental health in the UK?

I’ve struggled with anxiety since I was 14, and I never spoke to anyone about it - not even my closest friends - as I thought I’d come across as silly for getting anxious over what some people may see as ‘normal’ tasks. When I look back, I wish someone had been there to tell me I wasn’t the only one who felt the way I did.

What were the biggest challenges you faced when starting your business and how did you overcome them?

Our biggest challenge, which we’re constantly dealing with, is product-market fit. It’s not just you who needs to like your products but also your customers. To ensure we have product-market fit, we do surveys after someone purchases to ask why they bought from us and regularly look at sales data to see what sells the best so we can base future collections around this.

How did your experience studying Business Economics prepare you for launching and running your own company?

Understanding the basics of a balance sheet and profit and loss is critical, as you need to understand your numbers and ensure you have good gross and net margins. Basic accounting knowledge is vital since you won’t have an accountant at first. Also, it’s important to understand barriers to entry because if you’re in a market with low barriers, then you need to work hard to stand out from your competitors and always have a USP.

What specific skills should students develop at university if they’re considering starting their own business?

Basic accounting knowledge as you won’t have an accountant at first. Also, it's important to understand barriers to entry because if you’re in a market with low barriers then you need to ensure you work hard to stand out from your competitors and ensure you always have a USP. 

What advice would you give recent graduates who are thinking of starting their own business?

Start really small and don’t go all in and quit your job right away! Also, make sure to do something you’re really passionate about as you have to be committed for the long run. I’d also recommend building up a following by posting organic content about the product you want to sell to build a community before launching your product. Also, share relatable content that would be relevant to your ideal customer.

Looking back, what’s one thing you wish you had known before starting Calm Collective Co?

How hard it would be! You have to be committed for the long run and accept that you won’t be an expert at anything yet. It’ll also take a while to make money and is a really long process, but it’s super rewarding and allows you to discover so much about yourself.

What are the future plans for Calm Collective Co?

I want to continue growing sustainably with no outside investment and also look to do some in-person events to grow our community in 2025! We're also releasing lots of new unique collections with pieces you wouldn't find anywhere else!