Let's say hello to...
The Psychology of Belonging
Hello! I’m Rea, Student Engagement Manager, and I’m originally from Greece. I moved to Edinburgh in October 2020 to do my Masters at the University of Edinburgh and, after falling in love with the city, decided to stay for my PhD, which I’ve just submitted. My academic journey has taken a few turns too. I started with an undergraduate degree in Education and Teaching and eventually specialised in Clinical and Health Psychology.
I’ve only been at the Union for two weeks, but I’m already loving it. My route here actually started during my PhD, when I did an internship and met Ian. I’ve tutored, lectured, researched and worked in mental health support, so I’ve ended up with quite a mix of experiences. When Ian got in touch about this role, it felt like a great opportunity to bring all of that together and work with students, for students.
My role is focused on student representation and communities, looking at how we work as a team and how we can keep improving our processes. I enjoy being around people, because for me, that’s where engagement starts. I want to help make sure we’re listening to students and turning their feedback into something that actually makes a difference.
Edinburgh is also a special place to do that. It’s a city, but it’s small enough to feel easy to navigate, especially when you’re new here. It’s welcoming, beautiful and slightly fairytale-like, particularly when you remember there’s a loch sitting on our campus.
The Union values I connect with most are Student-focused and Brave. Students are at the centre of everything we do, and I believe we should give them the opportunities to be active in shaping their own lives. Being brave is part of that too. New experiences can be daunting, but sometimes you just must take the step and keep an open mind.
Outside of work, I love travelling and spending time with the people closest to me. I also rock climb, am getting back into tennis and have visited the Isle of Skye six times, so apparently, I’m one trip away from becoming an unofficial tour guide. And finally, I love potatoes. One day, I fully intend to have a potato-themed birthday party. In fact, one of the first things I Googled after being diagnosed with celiac disease was: “Can I still have a potato?”
Ways to get in touch with me...