Making the Most of a Pandemic Start
Starting University in 2020 was not ideal for beginning the next chapter of your life.
With all classes having to be moved online due to the pandemic, it was hard to feel that excitement for a new adventure.
But for PhD student Lauren McKeary, she made the most of this unusual start.
EDGE Award Scheme
"I signed up for the EDGE Award Scheme after it was advertised by the careers department during ‘Welcome Week’ in my first year at Ulster. I wanted to complete the EDGE award to enhance my skills and experiences beyond my academic studies. The scheme offered a structured way to engage in various activities that would help me develop professionally and personally and help me to develop my employability."
From EDGE Activities to Excel Award
Completing various activities ranging from ‘Designing Your Career Journey’ and ‘Self Awareness’ to ‘Graduate Futures’ and ‘Cultural Awareness’ and everything in between, it’s clear to see that Lauren took full advantage of everything the EDGE Award had to offer.
Indeed, on top of the academic recognition and CV boosting that these activities afforded Lauren, it was also the soft skills she learnt along the way that have stayed with her, into her PhD studies.
‘During my PhD studies, I frequently utilise the skills I developed through the EDGE Award, such as time management, communication and self-awareness. These skills are crucial for helping me to manage my research and meet deadlines.’
‘The variety of activities I completed provided me with a diverse set of skills and experiences that are highly valued by employers, such as personal reflection. In particular, I feel that the activities I participated in gave me confidence during the interview for my PhD studentship.’
As part of the EDGE Award, students complete three approved activities alongside their academic studies, across their time at University. Once completed, you can then apply for official EDGE Award accreditation and receive it at graduation.
If you don’t want to stop there, you can also earn the EDGE Excel Award, by completing 5 approved activities.
Now, three or five activities are an arguably very doable task. However, BSc Hons Biomedical Sciences student Lauren McKeary chose to up the stakes for herself by completing seventeen EDGE Award activities across her four-year degree. An impressive feat! But why so many?
‘I wanted to complete extra activities because I saw them as opportunities to further enrich my learning and development and, ultimately, my employability. Each activity offered unique experiences, and completing more activities has definitely benefited my employability prospects by showcasing my commitment, versatility, and ability to manage multiple responsibilities. I also saw it as a bit of a challenge for myself to see how many I could complete over my 4 years at Ulster.’
As a result of Lauren’s incredible dedication and commitment to the Edge Award Scheme, Lauren was approached with the idea that she should share her story for EDGE Excel’s Student of the Year award.
‘I was actually a bit shocked when it was suggested to me that I should submit a video for Student of the Year as it was something that hadn’t even crossed my mind. Recording my video was both exciting and nerve-wracking, but ultimately, I enjoyed the opportunity to reflect on my achievements and share my journey with others.’
And it should come as no surprise to you that Lauren McKeary became the well-deserved winner of the EDGE Excel Student of The Year for 2024. An accolade that she is still coming to terms with.
‘Getting the phone call and being told that I had won ‘EDGE Excel Student of The Year’ was an incredible moment, I was so shocked and absolutely delighted to receive it alongside a first class honours in my degree in Biomedical Science on Graduation Day. It validated all the hard work and dedication I had put into my activities alongside my studies. Achieving this award has positively impacted my employability aspirations by boosting my confidence and providing a strong talking point in interviews and when networking with other professionals. It has also opened up new opportunities and connections, such as being involved with this project.’
Now, if you are considering exploring the EDGE Award for yourself, here's some advice from Lauren.
EDGE Award – Lauren's Advice
"My advice to other students would be to definitely sign up for the EDGE Award Scheme. It's a fantastic opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, meet new people, and enhance your employability. Make the most of the activities and be proactive in seeking out experiences that align with your interests and career goals."
Looking Ahead
Coming back to the present day, Lauren McKeary is knee-deep in her PhD research and has her sights set firmly on making a difference in her field of expertise.
‘After completing my PhD, I hope to pursue a career within academia or a pharmaceutical company, where I can apply my research skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact.’
