In Student Wellbeing, each faculty has a Wellbeing Adviser attached to it. Wellbeing Advisers are the people that we as Drop-in Assistants would refer students to when they need additional support. There is always a Wellbeing Adviser on Drop-in for students who need more time than the typical 15-minute slot. This could be due to complex issues, a matter that needs to be urgently resolved or concerns around safety.
Wellbeing Advisers can maintain contact with students to help them engage in support options. They can talk through tools to improve wellbeing and can link with the school where necessary. Wellbeing Advisers are regularly asked to attend Student Support Meetings and be involved in Support to Continue Study processes. They offer advice and guidance on wellbeing issues that are impacting academics.
In this blog, we are introducing Paddy. He is the Wellbeing Adviser for Undergraduates in EPS. The faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences includes the schools of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Maths and Physics, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Natural and Built Environment and the School of Psychology. Paddy has been part of the QUB Wellbeing team since August 2023. Questions put to Paddy:
- How long have you worked in the area of wellbeing?
I have worked in wellbeing for 7+ years.
- Do you have any areas of interest with regards to your job? Does this relate to your background? What past experience do you bring to your role?
I have experience working with students in both the fitness and wellbeing sector in Higher Education and also management experience overseeing operations in both these sectors.
- What do you enjoy about your job?
I enjoy engaging with different types of people every day and learning from every single person!
- What calms you when you feel stressed?
I enjoy listening to podcasts (including sports and health) and exercising.
- What would be on your exam preparation playlist and are there any reasons why?
Old school dance hits!
- Do you have a pet peeve or something that makes you uncomfortable and how do you deal with it?
People saying they “can’t” do something. I try to convince them they can!
Paddy runs a Drop-in on Mondays during term-time where undergraduate students can call in for a chat or to find out more about the various wellbeing supports. He would work closely with support staff in EPS as wellbeing issues can often impact academics.
