What were your main duties and responsibilities during the course of your internship?

I managed data for and prepared all department and University level applications to external Charters (the Athena SWAN Charter and the Gender Equality Charter Mark (GEM) and Race Equality Charter Mark) and produced over 300 datasets. I also produced guidance and documentation on reports and data issued, including in relation to the Charter submission documents. I supported and coordinated smaller University projects, including leading on GEM, Parents’ and Carers’ Network, and the Gender Equality Group. I supported the application for University reaccreditation and organised events to support Women in HE aims.

What would you say was your biggest achievement over the course of your internship?

I have more confidence in my own abilities and have had a very wide range of experience in different areas.  I am pleased to have worked with senior and junior staff.

What benefits did your internship bring to your employer?

I led on the GEM project which was an achievement for the University. This was a challenging trial, and I led Classics and Ancient History through the new processes and templates well. I energised and brought new enthusiasm and ideas for the Gender Equality Group, doubling attendance in a year. I initiated and maintained a Parents’ and Carers’ Network for the University, which has been successful and is growing. I coordinated Aurora feedback and finances to lessen overworked staff’s burden.

“Helena worked as part of our Women in HE@Exeter project. She provided excellent support in data collection and analysis as well as discrete one off sub projects. Her greatest achievement was setting up the University’s Parents and Carers Network which included defining the scheme, arranging training , an online network forum and bank of reference materials. This has been a great success and is predominately down to the hard work which Helena put into launching the network.” – Assistant HR Director