Our third-year BA (Hons) Sociology student, Khonaf, took full advantage of the university’s opportunities by participating in career events and engaging with the Greenwich Students’ Union (GSU). Through activities like art exhibitions, TED talks, and talent shows, she not only enjoyed her social life but also built a strong professional network and developed valuable skills sought by future employers. It was through her involvement in university societies that she connected with the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP), where she later completed her final year work placement module.
Khonaf’s Placement Experience at WFWP
As part of her third-year placement module, Khonaf joined the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP). Her role at WFWP included assisting in organising the Young Women’s Speech Contest (YWSC), the same contest where she had previously won first place with a speech on sustainability. This experience provided her with hands-on learning about how NGOs conduct events, leading to an opportunity for her to organise her own event.
Khonaf’s event, titled “Period and Culture: Unveiling the Transition from Girlhood to Womanhood in Our UK Communities,” focused on addressing period poverty. She took charge of every aspect, from fundraising with local charities to creating a guest list, designing promotional materials, and delivering a workshop on creating reusable sanitary pads. This event not only raised awareness about period poverty but also highlighted her ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges.
Khonaf also highlights that her placement experience exceeded the module’s 150-hour requirement because she was deeply engaged with her team and appreciated the supportive, all-female workplace environment. Working alongside women of various ages and backgrounds, she was able to develop valuable skills whilst building strong connections and friendships. These relationships, along with her insights into the third sector, will be invaluable for her future career in charitable NGOs.
“The sociology degree isn’t just a degree, it’s a community...”
Khonaf’s Advice to Future Students
Reflecting on her journey, Khonaf advises future sociology students to "know the important balance between learning from lecturers and seminars and collecting experience from extra-curricular activities", emphasising that this combination is essential for discovering personal interests and identifying potential career paths.
What’s Next?
After graduation, Khonaf plans to undertake a 6-month traineeship at the European Parliament in Belgium. She also looks forward to reuniting with her parents in Sweden. During this time, she aims to prepare for her master’s degree, which she hopes to pursue at the University of Greenwich.
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