Annual Review 2009-10
Enriching the experience
Ensuring students graduate with a high quality
qualification and are equipped for future
challenges is a key focus at Essex.
The University was ranked 16th for student
satisfaction in this year's National Student Survey with 88 per cent of Essex
students saying they were satisfied with their course. This is up three per cent
on last year and is five per cent above the national average.
The Departments of Art History and Philosophy and the
Centre for Psychoanalytic Studies all achieved 100 per cent satisfaction ratings
and Essex is ranked in the top 10 for a number of science, social science and
humanities subjects.
This year's academic highlights included a two-week
residency by Nobel Laureate and Essex's new Professor of Poetry Derek Walcott
with students taking part in a series of workshops with the celebrated writer.
Student Pete Fitzgerald said: 'It was a privilege and an honour to be taught by
Professor Walcott.'
A major initiative to encourage students to develop
the skills future employers are looking for and get the most out of their time
at Essex was launched in 2009-10. The Big e campaign is using workshops,
lectures and special events including the Essex Apprentice, the Big e awards and
Essex Business Boot Camp to inspire students, build-up their skills and
recognise their achievements.
Enterprising students also competed against other
university teams in The Prince's Trust fundraising challenge, Million Makers.
Team Essex came second nationally and raised over £1,800 through a number of
fundraising activities.
Essex students have always made a valuable
contribution through volunteering and this year marked the 40th anniversary of
Nightline a confidential listening and advice service run by students and
pioneered at the University. Established in 1970 by students with the support of
staff, Essex Nightline has inspired many others across the country and beyond.
Branches have been set up in the United States, Canada, Switzerland and Germany,
in many cases by former Essex students.
