About Lisa Andrade
Lisa, a Support Services Associate at Taka Solutions, brings a wealth of experience and leadership as an alumna of the University of Stirling, where she served as the president of the student body. In her current role, Lisa excels in a split position, providing valuable support to both the Marketing and HR departments. She is currently pursuing her master’s from Middlesex University in MA Human Resource Management and Development (CIPD).
The transition from high school to university is a pivotal moment in every student’s life. It marks the beginning of a new chapter, where young individuals embark on a journey of self-discovery, academic pursuits, and personal growth. Reflecting on my own experiences, I can confidently say that my university years have been transformative, shaping me into the person I am today. Through a multitude of challenges, triumphs, and personal discoveries, I have emerged as a scholar with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of myself.
One of the first challenges I encountered upon entering university was the difference in academic structure. The transition from a structured Indian education to a more independent and rigorous academic setting was both exciting and daunting. I found myself faced with demanding assignments and an array of new subjects to navigate. However, I quickly realized that overcoming these challenges required not only diligence but also adaptability. I learned to manage my time effectively, breaking down tasks and setting realistic goals. I sought help when needed, reaching out to professors and classmates for guidance, who taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of seeking support when needed.
In addition to academic challenges, I also encountered various personal obstacles during my university years. As all my friends had moved to different parts of the world and universities to pursue their education, this led me to navigate unfamiliar social dynamics and establish new friendships at UoS. These experiences tested my resilience and forced me to step out of my comfort zone.
To overcome these challenges, I had to get out of my comfort zone and communicate with people around me. I actively sought out opportunities for personal growth by joining clubs and participating in activities at the university, which not only provided a sense of belonging but also allowed me to develop leadership skills and forge lifelong friendships. Moreover, my university experience provided me with the chance to engage with a diverse student body and interacting with professors who were experts in their fields allowed me to gain insights into different ideas, and ways of thinking. This exposure challenged my preconceived notions, encouraging me to think critically and approach complex issues from multiple angles.
One of the most significant milestones in my personal growth during my university years was the opportunity to start a Placement and Education Wing with the guidance of my teacher mentor Ms. Shanthi and eventually assume the role of its president. Recognizing the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry, we decided to establish a platform that would assist our fellow students in securing internships and job placements. With the support and guidance of Ms Shanthi, we worked tirelessly to lay the foundation of the placement wing. From organizing workshops to connecting with companies for potential internship opportunities, we aimed to empower our peers and enhance their career prospects. As the president of the placement wing, I not only led a team of passionate individuals but also honed my leadership skills and developed a deep sense of responsibility towards the welfare of my fellow students. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration, effective communication, and perseverance in achieving shared goals. It also allowed me to witness firsthand the impact of our efforts as we witnessed our fellow students succeed in securing coveted internships and job offers. Serving as the president of the placement wing was a humbling experience that not only contributed to my personal growth but also reinforced my commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
The pursuit of knowledge in an academic setting also taught me the value of curiosity and lifelong learning. I began to see education not merely as a means to an end but as a continuous process of intellectual growth. During my time at the university, I had the privilege of participating in the My Stirling Awards, an innovative skills award program developed by the Careers and Employability Service designed to recognize students’ extra-curricular activities and achievements. With over 600 hours of extracurricular work in the span of 5 months I was able to complete all three awards secured all 3 medals (Bronze, Silver and Gold) in one academic term. being the only transnational (offshore campus) student to have participated and achieved all three awards in the same academic year. This achievement led me to be awarded honorable mention in the STAR Awards hosted by Stirling UK Campus.
Through this experience, I developed analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, the ability to synthesize complex information, and many more skills which have not only been invaluable academically but have also equipped me with the tools to tackle real-world challenges.
As I look back on my journey from student to scholar, I am filled with gratitude for the transformative experiences I encountered in university. The challenges I faced, both academically and personally, have shaped me into a resilient, adaptable, and compassionate individual. I have emerged with a deep sense of purpose, armed with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive impact on the world.
University is not merely a place to gain knowledge; it is a transformative experience that molds young minds and nurtures personal growth. It is a journey of self-discovery, where individuals overcome obstacles, embrace diversity, and cultivate a passion for lifelong learning. My own journey has been a testament to the transformative power of education, and I am excited to continue evolving as a scholar and as a person in the years to come.
