Hope Life Graduation 2015

Hope Life Graduation 2015 | Edition 3

If you have a story to share, get in touch at hopelife@hope.ac.uk

Hope Life

Hope Life Graduation 2015 |

Edition 3

Graduation 2015 | Edition 3

Contents If you have a story

to share, get in touch

at hopelife@hope.ac.

uk

#hopegrad15 Melissa Bunbury @missmbunbury And I’ve finally finished. What an amazing day with family and friends. #hopegrad15 Sophie. @sophtori I have been so blessed over these past 3 years!! #hopegrad15

20 Honorary Degrees 2015 Stuart @stu_the_supply #Graduation day has arrived after an amazing 4 yrs @ LiverpoolHopeUK at 47 I’m getting a 2:1 BA(QTS) #proudtobehope

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Congratulations to our graduates

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Student Success Stories

James Davies @JamesDavies1978 What a fantastic day! #HopeGrad15

Daniel Leung @djhkleung

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Beyond Graduation

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Selfie Station

Wonderful to celebrate my graduation from @LiverpoolHopeUK yesterday, with the support of @ProfNickRees

Welcome from Professor Pillay Graduation is a wonderful time of year in the University calendar and something we look forward to. Of all the universities at which I have worked, Liverpool Hope’s graduation ceremonies and the celebrations are among the very best I have experienced! It is always such a joyous occasion when we can come together as a University and celebrate our successes. One of the best parts of the day for me is seeing the friends and family of our students on campus.

The personal stories we hear when meeting with families inspire us all. The ceremony is an opportunity for students to reflect on their time at Liverpool Hope, celebrate jointly with their tutors and consider the new opportunities of the next stage of their lives.

As you will read in this edition of Hope Life, there have been many successes along the road to graduation. You will read of some of these personal journeys. I am just glad that the University has been there along the way. May I add my personal congratulations to all our graduates.

You are now ambassadors of Hope as you go out into the world; you represent us all.

After these great days of celebration, we have now received the National Student Satisfaction scores for our University. We are in the top quartile for student satisfaction in the UK with over 90% satisfaction for teaching quality. The graduating class has done the University proud. Thank you class of 2015.

Please stay in touch and tell us of your progress. We would really like to hear from you.

With best wishes Professor Gerald J. Pillay Vice-Chancellor & Rector

Hope Life is published by Liverpool Hope University, Hope Park, L16 9JD. Tel: 0151 291 3219 Email: hopelife@hope.ac.uk Website: www.hope.ac.uk/hopelife

What our graduates say Emma Geraghty Creative and Performing Arts “I loved the Creative Campus, which has a very personal atmosphere and a friendly environment. Aspects of my course really opened my eyes, in particular choreographing performances. I’m planning to stay in Liverpool and work for a year before applying to do a PGCE at the University.”

Robert Gibbs Drama and History “Although Drama and History seem like an unusual combination, it was a nice balance between the creative and academic. I have dyslexia, so often found aspects of the Drama course easier and it was a refreshing change from other things I studied. I’m planning to work for a bit before applying for a Drama-based Masters.”

Graham Brady Computing “I’m originally from Belfast and had always wanted to visit Liverpool, as I’m a big fan of Liverpool Football Club. A lot of friends recommend Liverpool Hope and I really liked the University when I attended the open day. I’ve loved my time here and don’t want to leave, so I’m looking for graduate work in the city and hoping to stay on.”

Ross Collins Philosophy “The best thing about Liverpool Hope is the people. From the lecturers and tutors, to the friends you meet, everyone is welcoming and friendly.

There is a great atmosphere on campus and this makes it a nice place to be.”

Hope Life is designed in house at Liverpool Hope University and printed by Media Group.

Cover image: Graduates outside the Metropolitan Cathedral on Graduation Day.

The views expressed in the magazine are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent those of Liverpool Hope University.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR GRADUATES It was another successful graduation with around 1,000 graduates joined by their families and friends on campus across three days of celebrations.

Wave during Thursday’s hat throw and a free photo booth in the EDEN Building, which was enjoyed by both graduates and their guests.

Graduates were treated to a day of memory making with a Service of Thanksgiving and presentation of prizes ceremony, an organised hat throw in the library quad, free refreshments around campus, plentiful photo opportunities, and the degree ceremony itself, which took place in the stunning Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral – all topped off with a congratulations procession down the cathedral steps.

Graduates can view all the videos taken during graduation week on our You Tube Channel at www.youtube.com/liverpoolhopeuni1

This year also saw Liverpool Hope’s first ever Mexican 4

Photographs from the celebrations can also be seen on our Flickr Channel at www.flickr.com/LiverpoolHopeUniversity

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Graduate Success Stories

Educating Alison: Teachers’ perspectives on School Values “I chose Liverpool Hope as I wanted to explore values in schools and education. It has the Centre for Christian Education and Pastoral Theology with academic expertise in this field, along with many school contacts that were assets for the study. No other university had this combination, so it was the logical choice. Furthermore, a school welcomed my study because of the ethical reputation of the University.

“The highlight was the opportunity to do real-world research in education, and contribute to our understanding of a teacher’s role. Attending events at Hope and other institutions was a fantastic way to share ideas, learn from others and be part of a learning community.

“I’ve learned educational research skills, including qualitative data analysis, and to express myself more clearly, which 6

has given me confidence. I’ve also refined my ability to create a strong line of argument, which my family are less enthusiastic about!

“The University has a wonderful IT department and Library staff, who were unstinting in their help, time and positive attitude. The reprographics team was very supportive in making sure the printed thesis met Hope’s standards. Dr Andrew Morris was a very good supervisor, demanding academic rigour, but with kindness, while the University’s research officer Chris Lowry clarified the process of doing a doctorate.

“Going forward, I’m focusing on helping more teachers in schools explore their values and how they can help children in a fast-changing and troubled world.”

Prize winner plans future at Hope Graduating with a First in Psychology and the second-highest mark for her dissertation, Rebecca Dwyer received the Psychology Examiner’s Prize.

“The highlight of my time at Hope, although it may sound strange, was completing my dissertation.

In the years leading up to it, I worried about the dissertation project. The fact you are given so much freedom and responsibility to research a topic of your own choice was something that seemed quite daunting. However, although at times it was quite challenging, it felt like a huge achievement and relief to finally hand my project in after all the time and effort I had invested in it, and getting the grades at the end made it seem all the more worth it.

related to what I was studying and the field I wished to pursue. They were ready to offer advice and answer any questions I had. Going to university has definitely helped me to come out of my shell. I have always been a little shy and reserved, but taking on things I found challenging, such as standing up in front of my class and doing presentations, has definitely eased some of the worries I had about situations where I have to talk in front of others. Although I still get nervous, I feel I have got a lot better at this, which will surely come in handy with job interviews and situations where I have to talk in front of a group of people.

“As for winning the Psychology Examiner’s Prize, I feel so happy to be chosen for this. I worked really hard to complete my studies, but I would sometimes find myself doubting my performance or worrying that I haven't done as well as I should have, so to receive this award was unexpected and a lovely surprise. I feel really grateful and it made me even more excited for graduation day!

“I hope to carry on my studies by completing a Masters in cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging here at Hope, and eventually complete doctoral work or go into research.”

“Throughout my degree, I found my tutors to be really helpful and supportive as I looked for work experience that

Daniel Leung: Broadcasting for Hope Christian Theology and Media & Communication student Daniel Leung used his time at Liverpool Hope to hone his broadcasting skills and deepen his participation in chaplaincy life.

Daniel knew within minutes of attending an Open Day that he wanted to study at Liverpool Hope. He said: “As soon as I walked through the door I was greeted warmly and made to feel welcome. Every student is known by name from day one to graduation day, which struck me as academic staff greeted me on the steps of the cathedral.”

An interest in media led to Daniel’s involvement with THIS Radio, where he interviewed artists including Jess Glynne and the Hoosiers: “A real highlight was interviewing Lyse Doucet, the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent, at the reception of her Honorary Doctorate,” he said. “I was struck by her stories of hope and humanity in the face of despair in war-torn countries and I also gained even more appreciation for the importance of the media.”

Daniel became the North West Regional Officer for the Student Radio Association and completed the Creative

Industries Award. He was also involved in the ACISE conference, presenting a poster to visiting academics from Catholic universities across the world about his experience at Liverpool Hope. He said: “It was enjoyable and surreal that as an undergraduate I was addressing professors, but it helped me to gain confidence.”

Participating in Chaplaincy life also had a big impact on Daniel’s experience: “The theologian St Thomas Aquinas said, ‘without friendships even the most agreeable of tasks becomes arduous’. The highlight for me was making close life-long friends with similar and different views and personalities to myself. I have enjoyed deepening those friendships with trips to Dublin, Manchester, London, and retreats with the Chaplaincy to Hautecombe Abbey, Barmouth and Formby.”

Reflecting on his time at Hope, where he was awarded a First Class degree, he added: “I am proud to call Hope my Alma Mater, as it has nurtured many talents and critical interpersonal skills. I have been able to recognise my own personality and approach to tasks, allowing me to deal with deadlines and cope with stress. My academic writing style has been finessed, and my knowledge of the fields of theology and media has grown. My involvement with the wider University has equipped me to continue at Hope as a Graduate Intern at THIS Radio and as a Senior Resident Tutor.”

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Graduate Success Stories

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A first class driving ambition Business Management and Marketing student David Bell is certainly driven - demonstrated by his First Class degree and his Dean’s Award for Achievement in Marketing.

David, from Dingle, originally decided to return to education after being made redundant. He then balanced a two-year college access course followed by a three-year degree at Liverpool Hope with a full-time job as taxi driver.

David said: “I chose Liverpool Hope for two reasons. Firstly, I had heard it was a mature-student friendly university. I knew two people who had started studying here in their 30s, and they both recommended it to me. I also live quite close to Hope Park, and passing it nearly every day, I thought that it looked like a great campus in which to study.”

“One of my highlights at Hope was going on a trip to a drinks factory in my second year with my marketing tutor Adnane. I was still unsure what I wanted to do when I finished my degree, and this made me realise that I’d like to work in the manufacturing industry. Another highlight for me was results day — getting a First Class grade was one of the best things that’s ever happened to me.”

He added: “I developed many skills during my time at Liverpool Hope. Although I’ve always thought of myself as a confident person, I would often feel nervous doing presentations.

“If I had to sum up my time at Hope in three words, it would be an ‘extremely rewarding experience.’

Journal recognition for Biology and Education graduate Seeing his work recognised in print was the icing on the cake for Biology and Education graduate Christopher Myers.

“If I could sum up my university experience in three words, it would be ‘challenging, rewarding and inspiring’.

The support I’ve received from staff over the past three years has been truly incredible. Any questions I had regarding assignments or just general understanding of content was dealt with quickly and efficiently, particularly this year for my dissertation. I received fantastic support from both of my supervisors and other tutors.

“Having my research published in a journal feels amazing and is one of the biggest achievements of my life so far. It was a great feeling to get a First in my dissertation, but even better knowing that my research is going to inform other academics in the field.

David is interested in working in automotive manufacturing and has secured himself a job with Lear Corporation in the Midlands, which he hopes will be a stepping stone in achieving his aims.

“The highlight of my time at the University is definitely the people I have met, we’ve shared laughs and dealt with stress together when the work got tough. My confidence has developed immensely over the past three years and I have gone from being a first year student not wanting to answer a question, to a third year student happily volunteering to speak about my research at a dissertation conference.

He said: “I believe that the other skills I have acquired, which I know will be very useful going forward, include conducting research, report writing and working in teams. If I had to sum up my time at Hope in three words, it would be an ‘extremely rewarding experience’.

“My ambition before I came to Liverpool Hope was to become a teacher, and that ambition has only strengthened. I have a place confirmed for a primary science teaching PGCE and I’m really looking forward to starting my teacher training.”

“After doing many presentations over the last three years, and in front of large groups, I no longer have a problem with them. You could say I even enjoy them!”

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Graduate Success Stories

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Twice as nice Law and Social Policy graduate Rajinder Kaur is celebrating a double win after being named top performing student in both Law and Social Policy.

“My academic journey as an undergraduate happened by chance really. The decision to study at university while being a full-time mother of four was not something I had envisaged, or something I thought I would be at all capable of doing. I was working full-time, raising my children and was an active community volunteer, when the unfortunate happened. I suddenly became unwell, isolated and alone, and it was through a community social work team that my passion to revive my supressed ambitions were realised.

“Throughout my three-year journey studying a combined BA Law and Social Policy degree, the support from my tutors, Student Well-being and staff on all levels within Liverpool Hope University has been tremendous. Without the support received through Student Well-being none of what has been achieved would have been possible. I found myself visiting the drop-in sessions almost every day, full of worry and apprehension. The support received from all of the team has made me feel as though I am a part of this institution, and what a wonderful warm place it is.

“It is difficult for me to pinpoint a single highlight through my time at Hope. However, what does stand out is the very first achievement – finally getting a place at university, which in itself was an unbelievable achievement! The second is when I was awarded the Dean’s Award for academic excellence for the first two years of study, which was a very pleasant surprise. Having received this award, I somehow felt as though I might just be able to achieve my end goal in 2015.

The certificate sits proudly on the mantelpiece and I look at it from time to time and think, ‘is that really mine?’. It always brings a huge smile to my face when I remember the very first time I sat in a Social Policy lecture. The lecture was being delivered by a fresh, passionate and vibrant individual, and on a topic which was of resonance to me having had grown up during the infamous 1980s race riots. This particular lecture, which was delivered by Dr Joe Greener, will always be among one of the best Social Policy lectures I have attended and helped me to realise that change can only ever be made from within.

“I will never forget that I was about to give up my academic journey in Social Policy early into Level C, but Senior Lecturer Dr Laura Penketh helped me to believe in myself and supported me immensely through challenging periods of uncertainty.

“At Liverpool Hope University I found respect, diversity and excellence.”

“My complex needs were recognised by all my tutors during

level C and without the support from the Law department - in particular Mr John Sawyer and Mr Mike Ellis - I would never have continued with my studies at all. It was very difficult as a mature lady and a full-time mother to adapt to a teaching and learning environment, especially with regard to such a demanding subject as Law, and this all took time.

I am so proud of and have the utmost respect for the Law department and for the academic support provided by them throughout my undergraduate degree. Although the subject of Law is challenging, this course will remain one of the highlights of my life and I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside individuals I otherwise may never have met. The Law course itself was taught very well and I have learnt so much. However, having studied the philosophy of Law I now appreciate there is so much to learn each day - no-one can ever know the Law as it changes all of the time.

“At Liverpool Hope University I found respect, diversity and excellence.”

“My Law and Social Policy degree has helped me develop an immeasurable amount of skill, specifically with regard to people skills, research, verbal reasoning, a broader lexicon, essay writing and above all developing myself as an individual and as part of a wider community. Still, I would say that believing in myself academically is something that may or may not come with time.

“I cannot believe that three years have passed so quickly.

Despite having achieved a first class degree, a full Postgraduate Scholarship 2015-2016, the Routledge Award and the Liverpool Hope University Award, I feel as though I have much more to do. I sincerely dedicate this award to my Law and Social Policy tutors, without who these achievements would not have been possible. Having heard the news of these awards I initially thought there must be a mistake and I still have to pinch myself as anyone that knows me will say, ‘that’s just Rajinder’.

“In the future I hope to complete a Masters in Social Policy and to then pursue a career in academia, at Liverpool Hope University of course.

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Graduate Success Stories

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Awards hat trick for Ashley Ashley Kirwan achieved First Class Honours degree in BA Education and Geography and received three awards during the Prizegiving Service: • Winner of the Education Studies Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Education Studies • Winner of the Geoff Taylor Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Geography • Winner of the Derwent Prize for the best performance by a final year combined honours student.

“Before I began studying at Hope I knew little about the University, and hadn't been to visit during an Open Day. However this isn't something I regret, as any doubts I held were dispelled just a week into my degree. I instantly found the University and the city of Liverpool had warm, welcoming and friendly atmospheres. The students I met became friends almost immediately and remained so throughout the duration of the course.

“I had originally applied for Primary Teaching (QTS) with Modern Foreign Languages. However due to my late application, and perhaps relative lack of qualifications, I found myself studying Education combined with Geography.

This new challenge was made less daunting by the tutors, who were reassuringly supportive and explained the tasks that lay ahead in a way that made them slightly less scary.

They gave my course mates and me the belief that achieving a top degree was always going to be possible if we gave it our all.

“Opportunities to go beyond the constraints of the lecture/ seminar routine were abundantly available. By the end of my first year, I was in collaboration with universities across the country in creating an undergraduate journal, and by the end of the second year, I found myself in a rural town in Hungary with students from across Europe studying the benefits of sustainable education.

“In my final year, I had my research accepted for presentation at the British Education Studies Association conference, so I'm having to go back and dig up the dreaded dissertation for further reworking in advance of this! Education Studies threw up surprises left, right and centre and there was no telling where I would end up year after year. The opportunities that I've had have been easy to come by, because every tutor on my course pushes their students to fulfil their potential, offering them the chance to go further than they ever thought possible.

“In September 2015, I will begin a primary teacher training course in Bristol. However, it's going to take an awful lot to compare to my experience at Liverpool Hope University.”

A life changing experience Leah gained a First Class Honours Degree and was awarded a scholarship for academic achievement.

Here she tells us about her time at Liverpool Hope University and her plans for the future.

“Despite attending many Open Days, Liverpool Hope struck me as a friendly, welcoming and professional community. The facilities were incredibly impressive, particularly the library, which had recently undergone a lot of work. All of the students and staff welcomed me warmly and were happy to answer any questions or queries.

“My biggest highlight at Hope was seeing my dissertation finished and printed (finally) after months of hard work and attention. Another was receiving a scholarship from the University for my academic achievement. Liverpool Hope takes a lot of pride in the achievement of students, which is a very personal focus compared to other universities. Taking part in a Global Hope project to Malawi working in a children’s SOS village was another highlight. I will forever be grateful for the experience and memories I gained from the project; it was a life changing experience.

“My writing skills have developed through help and advice from personal tutors, who provided a conceptually driven and thought-provoking degree, helping me to be critical and focused in my writing. The way assessments have been organised throughout the three years has required a lot of time management to ensure I feel confident and happy with my work, rather than submitting something last minute! My degree has developed my confidence in academic work, as has engaging with the excellent research community at Hope through events and seminars held in the Faculty of Education.

“I’m planning an MA in Disability Studies focusing on the cultural issues that media, policy and literature produces, while continuing to critically study inclusive policy. Studying an MA at Hope will help me prepare for PhD applications in the future.”

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Graduate Success Stories

Prize winner Joanne shares her story Joanne Williams, who received the School Direct Primary Prize for Excellence, shares her experience of studying for her PGCE qualification at Liverpool Hope University.

“It’s been a rollercoaster of a year.”

“It’s been a rollercoaster of a year, but the final celebrations make it all worthwhile. Balancing the course with raising my two children has been challenging at times, but it’s nice to have them here with me to celebrate.

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“I gained a distinction in both pieces of my work, but was surprised and delighted to find out I’d been awarded the School Direct Primary Prize. The ceremony has definitely been one of the highlights of my time at Liverpool Hope and I would recommend the University to anyone. From the hands on approach to teaching, to learning from outstanding teachers, it has been a great experience.

“Before I joined the course, I was working as a Teaching Assistant at Bleak Hill Primary and it was the school’s link with Liverpool Hope that encouraged me to apply here. I’m thrilled to have landed a job at the school teaching Year 2 pupils and can’t wait to get started in September.”

An international education for Marcus Marcus Morris, studied Education (Childhood and Youth) and picked up the prize for Contribution to Childhood and Youth Studies. He is now going on to study for a PGCE Primary qualification at Liverpool Hope.

“I realised I wanted to pursue a career in teaching/ education whilst working as a youth worker. I was drawn to Primary Teaching in particular because you get to work with children at a really important time in their lives, when they are beginning to form their own ideas and opinions. I feel that my BA study has really prepared me for the PGCE. My thesis was on immigration in the UK and the way social tensions and cohesion link to educational output and inequality. I wanted to explore a topic that was current and complex and could spark many different viewpoints. I’m now looking forward to playing a

part in helping young people develop and grow.”

Marcus also undertook the Service and Leadership Award at Liverpool Hope, which is designed to help students develop key skills while giving them the opportunity to contribute to the community. Marcus travelled to Uganda with Global Hope, Liverpool Hope’s international education charity.

He worked in a Primary School called St Peter and Paul, leading lessons in a range of subjects. He said of his experience: “I wanted to be part of Global Hope because it was a chance to do some good in a different country and also develop my own skills. I wanted to go to a part of the world that I had never been to before and release myself from my comfort zone. My trip to Uganda highlighted the poverty that some people endure. However, it also highlighted the resilience and strength of these people.

Global Hope is not just about helping others. It is about helping yourself in understanding the world and realising, not only your own potential, but the potential of young people that are not as fortuitous in their circumstances.”

Rosa’s food for thought Nutrition graduate Rosa Treadwell was one of eight students invited to present her research at the Annual Summer Meeting of the Nutrition Society, an impressive achievement for a final-year student.

“I chose Liverpool Hope because it was far enough away from home to give both my parents and me freedom from each other. On the post-offer applicant day, everyone I spoke to was incredibly friendly and welcoming, particularly the support staff, lecturers and student ambassadors, which was totally refreshing. Situated in a city of culture, but with a beautiful green campus, the University grabbed me from the get go. I wanted to break out of my comfort zone and experience something completely different and this looked like the place to do it.

“Highlights from my time at university include: • The Global Hope trip to Trichy, India, that I embarked upon after the first year. I couldn’t have prepared myself for how much the visit opened my eyes to the global picture. The learning experience, beauty of the country, remarkable cuisine, breath-taking temples and tiger and elephant reserves contrasted against the harsh, cruel realities of slum children, poverty and disadvantage was overwhelming

• Realising that university educates you in more than one educational paradigm, teaching you that life won’t wait, to nurture your best and to believe in yourself • Winning first place at National and European Championships with the University Cheer Squad, Hope Hurricanes • Presenting my dissertation at the Annual Summer Nutrition Conference this summer.

“My degree has helped me to develop confidence in my own abilities when presenting to an audience and to love what I’m doing so work doesn’t feel like a chore. Some tutors and lecturers really push you, not only to do well, but to do your best. Some incredible staff members like Farzad Amirabdollahian, Jo Hogan and Dave Merryweather really invested time and effort into their students achieving the best they could — nothing was too much trouble for them.

“Having my work accepted into the Summer Meeting of the Nutrition Society felt amazing, but the buzz I got from presenting my dissertation to a packed lecture theatre is indescribable. The idea of having my work published gave me faith in myself and in the value of my course. It was the cherry on top of the cake, as the news came just after I found out I’d got a First in my results! For the next 12 months I will be working in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital to gain experience and save money, before starting my Masters course in Public Health Nutrition.”

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LIVERPOOL METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE KING The first plans to build a Catholic Cathedral in Liverpool date back to the 1850s but the Cathedral wasn’t opened until 1967.

It took just five years to build the Cathedral.

The building’s famous lantern tower is surmounted by 16 pinnacles, encircled by a latticework crown – this weighs over 2,000 tons.

The stained glass in the tower is by John Piper and Patrick Reyntiens and is the largest in the world to depict, in abstract form, the Trinity.

Together with the Anglican Cathedral at the opposite end of Hope Street, the buildings, with their striking and contrasting styles, dominate the landscape of Liverpool and are a symbol of the spirit of ecumenism for which the city has become famous.

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Prize Giving Service

Eyes on the prize Academic excellence and outstanding achievements were recognised in a series of Prizegiving Services held in Hope Chapel.

Friends and family gathered to witness top-performing students commended with awards ranging from best performance to special contribution.

Rajinder Kaur, who was awarded the Liverpool Hope University Prize and the Routledge-Cavendish Prize, said: “I sincerely dedicate these awards to my Law and Social Policy tutors, without who these achievements would not have been impossible. Having heard the news of these awards I initially thought there must be a mistake and I still have to pinch myself.”

For many of the graduates, the awards were the icing on the cake after three years of hard work. Winner of the Psychology Examiners’ Prize Rebecca Dwyer said: “I feel so happy to be chosen for this. I worked really hard to complete my studies, but I would sometimes find myself doubting my 18

performance or worrying that I haven’t done as well as I should have, so to receive this award was unexpected and a lovely surprise. I feel really grateful and it made me even more excited for graduation!”

International student Ewelina Chorzepa, who took home the Notre Dame Prize for outstanding achievement during her final year school placement, added: “It has been a privilege to study at Liverpool Hope University. The students and staff are wonderful, and tutors are always there to help and support you in any way they can. I’m now a newly qualified teacher who is brightly looking to the future and I’ve secured a job in a primary school in Liverpool. Thank you very much to all of the wonderful staff from the Faculty of Education and Liverpool Hope University for helping make my dreams come true.”

What our graduates said Thomas Bonner Music “My motto is to try everything once and I’ve definitely tried to apply this during my time at Liverpool Hope.

Among the highlights are my time as conductor of the Hope Orchestra, my role as joint-president of the Music Society and being part of the University’s Gaelic Football Team when it claimed the British University Gaelic Football Championship title. I’m looking forward to another year at Hope, as I start my PGCE in Secondary Music in September.”

Natasha Lawrenson PGCE Primary “The last year has been amazing, unreal at times and definitely tough, but it’s all been worth it, as I love working with children. I’ve met loads of new people and feel ready to take on my Year 1 class in September. If you’re thinking about doing a PGCE then make sure it’s what you really want to do and then put your heart and soul into it.”

Sheida Abrar Business Management and Marketing “I’m originally from Nice, but wanted to study in the UK and had heard Liverpool was a really good city for students. Hope really appealed to me because, as it’s a small university, it’s easy to get to know people. I’m now planning to head to Geneva, where I have an internship with the Red Cross, before completing an MA in Logistics.

Rebecca Simpson Geography “The field trip to Malta in my third year was definitely the highlight of my course. We assessed the geographical features of the landscape and spent time exploring the island. Now that I’ve graduated, I’m planning to volunteer with the Wildlife Trust and hope to get into the conservation field.”

Shanica Campbell Creative and Performing Arts “After completing my course and making friends for life, I’m hoping to come back to Hope to study a Psychology undergraduate degree.

I’m currently working full-time, but would like to become a drama therapist.”

Kathryn Fargher Human Biology and Sport “I chose Liverpool Hope as very few universities offered the course I wanted to do. I’ve always wanted to teach sport and plan to go on and do my PGDE.”

Caroline Bradshaw School Direct “It’s a great feeling to have finally finished and be graduating. I’m looking forward to starting at Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School in St Helens, where I’ll be teaching a Year 4 class.

My advice to new PGCE candidates is not to think twice, just enjoy the course and once you get to your placements it will be fantastic.”

Niamh McDaid School Direct “I’ve always wanted to be a teacher, so after completing my undergraduate degree in Psychology I decided to apply to do my PGCE at Liverpool Hope. I suffer from dyslexia and received a fantastic amount of support from my course tutor Elizabeth Parr. If you’re willing to put the work in, there is more than enough help along the way, and I’m thrilled to have secured a job as a primary teacher in St Helens.”

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HONORARY DEGREES FOR INSPIRING PEOPLE FROM THE FIELDS OF LITERATURE, EDUCATION AND CHARITY Three people were awarded with honorary degrees at Liverpool Hope’s graduation ceremonies this year. All those honoured gave inspiring and motivational speeches to our graduates, encouraging them to help others, continue to learn and always live life to the full.

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“Remember that you have a mind capable of more than you know.”

Marilynne Robinson Pulitzer Prize Winner praises “great hearted” and “generous” city of Liverpool Pulitzer Prize winner and one of President Obama’s favourite authors Marilynne Robinson praised Liverpool as a “great hearted”, “generous” and “fascinating” city when she picked up an honorary degree from Liverpool Hope University.

“you have a mind capable of more than you know” and that “people are so much smarter than they think they are…so much deeper”. She also advised them to continue to give their mind the respect and attention it deserves “and it will become a companion for life”.

Dr Robinson told graduating students and their families at the ceremony at the Metropolitan Cathedral that she wanted to return to Liverpool after first visiting five years ago, so that she could see more of the city’s character, liveliness and generosity.

Dr Robinson, who is also a winner of the National Humanities Medal and the Orange Prize, was recognised

by Liverpool Hope for both her fiction and non-fiction work, which explores issues of human thought-science, consciousness and religion. Her novel Gilead won the 2005 Pulitzer Prize for fiction and the 2004 National Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction. Set in 1956 in the small town of Gilead, Iowa, Gilead takes the form of a letter written by the minister John Ames to his young son.

She advised the new graduates to be conscious of their gifts and told them “do not be afraid to fail – just fail better next time.” Dr Robinson told graduates to always remember that

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“It simply cannot be right that pupils from lower income backgrounds will come out of university with more debt than those from more privileged backgrounds”

Roger Brown Professor and prolific education expert and commentator says “Graduates are the lifeblood of society”.

Honorary degree recipient Professor Roger Brown argued for the importance of diversity in education and told Liverpool Hope graduates that they and universities are “the lifeblood of society.”

Professor Brown is an international authority on the application of market-based policies to higher education, and was recognised for his services to higher education.

He praised Liverpool Hope for its “holistic” approach to education and for providing “a rich and full curriculum for its students”. Professor Brown received the Times Higher Education Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013, and is Emeritus Professor of Higher Education Policy at Liverpool Hope University.

Commenting on the scrapping of maintenance grants for university students from low-income families, Professor Brown said: “It simply cannot be right that pupils from lower income backgrounds will come out of university with more 22

debt than those from more privileged backgrounds.” He declared that if this remains in place, “we shall be going backwards as a society”.

Professor Brown then recounted a story about a Philosophy professor who came into a classroom with a jar which he filled with rocks. He asked his students if it was full, to which they replied in the affirmative. The professor then proceeded to fill in the gaps with pebbles, and the students again declared that the jar was full. He then filled in the rest of the jar with sand and asked the students whether it was now full, to which they again replied yes. The professor told the students to think of the jar as their life, the rocks as representing their family and friends, the pebbles as representing their house, car or job, and the sand as everything else that happens day to day in life. Professor Brown concluded that we should all “focus on the rocks, the rest is just pebbles and sand.”

“Start early to instil in your students awareness that they are on this earth to help and serve others. That is as important to pass on to them as knowledge.”

Trevor Lyttleton Trevor Lyttleton vows to “pass on the torch” to help fight loneliness Trevor Lyttleton, Chairman of Contact the Elderly, said that he wants to “pass on the torch” to the next generation after announcing his retirement during the acceptance speech for his honorary degree from Liverpool Hope University.

Mr Lyttleton said it was fitting for him to make his announcement at the ceremony because of the shared values of Liverpool Hope and Contact the Elderly. He recounted advice from the Cambridge polymath Dr Albert Schweitzer, who said it was important to, “start early to instil in your students awareness that they are on this earth to help and serve others. That is as important to pass on to them as knowledge”.

Contact the Elderly started in Marylebone in 1965 with 12 volunteers and 12 elderly guests, and was founded

by Mr Lyttleton when he was in his 20s. It now has 7,500 volunteers and staff and 560 groups nationwide. In the 50 years it has been in existence, it has made one million

friendship links between elderly people and the younger generations. Mr Lyttleton said he was accepting his Doctorate of Humane Letters (honoris causa) from Liverpool Hope “on behalf of every volunteer and staff member at Contact the Elderly”.

He praised Liverpool Hope University’s relationship with the charity. Liverpool Hope was the first university to partner with Contact the Elderly, with students and staff running their own monthly tea parties at the Hope Park campus.

Mr Lyttleton said that Contact the Elderly’s mission has not changed over the 50 years since its inception. Explaining that when it started the aim was to “move away from the holier than thou attitude” often attached to charity work, by showing that it is just as enjoyable for the volunteers as it is for the elderly people involved. Quoting Mark Twain: “The best way to cheer yourself up is to cheer somebody else up.”

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Beyond Graduation

Your relationship with Hope doesn’t end when you graduate.

We are here to offer you support and celebrate your success.

With competition for graduate roles as fierce as ever, it is important to make the most of the services available to you after graduation to help you stand out from the crowd and stay competitive in the graduate job market.

weekly workshops in The Hub to promote local part time work, placements abroad, work experience and graduate opportunities, including NHS, Thomas Cook, USA SummerCamp, Barclays and a variety of Teaching agencies.

Hope graduates have ongoing access to a number of Careers and Employability Services, run through our Employability Hub. The Hub is located in the Gateway Building at Hope Park and is open 9am – 5pm weekdays.

T: 0151 291 2032 E: hub@hope.ac.uk

Recruitment Fairs

Careers Express and Careers Appointments Careers Express is a drop-in service in The Hub, where you can speak to a Careers Adviser for 10-15 minutes without needing to book an appointment, perfect for all quick queries. (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 10:30am – 12:30pm, Wednesday 10am – 12pm) Careers Appointments are for more in depth discussions and last 45 minutes. You can book an appointment by calling or e-mailing The Hub. Telephone and Skype appointments can be arranged if you do not live locally.

• • • •

Creative Careers Day Volunteering and Work Experience Fair Ask the Recruiters Teaching and Education Fair.

Keep up to date with all Employer Workshops and Recruitment Fairs by following our Facebook page. The page is also updated daily with sourced local and national opportunities including part time work and Graduate jobs www.facebook.com/HopeUniCareers

Alumni Benefits

‘My Career Centre’ Careers Portal

You can continue to take advantage of benefits and services which we, and fellow alumni, offer to you – frequently at a discount.

Giving you access to career tutorials, 1,500+ employer insight videos, a CV builder and a powerful job search engine, the Careers Portal is an essential resource to maximise your graduate potential. Once you’ve graduated, please contact careers@hope.ac.uk to arrange your new graduate log-in.

In the coming weeks we are looking to develop the benefits and services that we offer to our Alumni. We would be interested in hearing from alumni who have an offer that they would like to promote to the Hope Alumni community via our website.

Employer Workshops

Please get in touch with us on alumni@hope.ac.uk or call 0151 291 3219.

Local and national employers from all sectors host 24

We host four annual fairs, each with a different focus, but all of them designed to help our students and graduates find work and learn from industry insiders.

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LIVERPOOL’S INTERNATIONAL ARTS VENUE

WHAT’S ON

Autumn Season 2015 Full listings www.thecapstonetheatre.com

Matthew Halsall and the Gondwana Orchestra

Immersion Theatre presents Romeo and Juliet

Thursday 1st October £14

Wednesday 14th October £12.50 (£9 concessions)

Stephen Hough in Recital

Roller Trio Friday 23rd October £11.50

Tuesday 20th October £11.50

I loved you and I loved you

Philip Clouts Quartet

Tuesday 27th October £12.50 (£9.50 concessions)

Friday 30th October £11.50

Julian Argüelles Tetra

Yaron Herman Saturday 14th November £11.50

Wednesday 4th November £11.50

TicketQuarter Handling Fee of £2.25 per order applies when booking online or by phone. There is no Handling Fee when buying tickets with cash from the TicketQuarter Box Office, Queens Square Centre, Queens Square, Liverpool L1 1RG.

BOX OFFICE 0844 8000 410

www.ticketquarter.co.uk capstonetheatre 28

@capstonetheatre