Mel Lawrance
My role
As student recruitment officer, I manage the student recruitment team and student ambassador team. My role includes planning and managing our attendance at recruitment events across the UK and identifying new recruitment opportunities. I manage and develop the university's outreach partnerships with schools and colleges outside Sussex, while also delivering and developing our programme of online and face-to-face activity.
My background
I grew up in a small village in South Wales, and my family moved to a seaside town in Suffolk as a teenager. I studied English Literature and Philosophy at the University of East Anglia and loved the experience of meeting new people, trying (and sometimes failing) at new things, and working at the student union where there were always amazing bands playing. After some time working in East Anglia and London within local authorities and charities, I moved to Brighton to work for the Prince’s Trust. Managing partnerships and working with young people in that role provided me with the valuable skills I needed to move into my first role in Student Recruitment, and I’ve been for over 5 years now.
Why University of Brighton?
I am proud to work in an inclusive and friendly Recruitment and Outreach team.
The University is a great place to work because everyone is so passionate about supporting our students to succeed, from academics to student services, and everyone in between.
My interests
I have two young children who take up most of my spare time, so we spend a lot of time as a family on the South Downs on or the beach. But when they’re asleep I try to sew, paint or go to one of the many excellent pubs in Brighton.
Ask me about
- Our work with schools and colleges outside Sussex
- Student Recruitment and Outreach Student Ambassadors
Get in touch
I'm based at our Moulsecoomb site when on campus, but am often out of the office visiting schools and colleges and attending events. Email me on m.lawrance2@brighton.ac.uk.
Jasmin Panayi
My role
As Student Recruitment Coordinator, I plan and attend recruitment events across the UK, such as HE fairs and UCAS events. I also develop the university’s partnerships with schools and colleges outside of Sussex, delivering our programme of talks and information and guidance sessions, both online and face-to-face. Alongside this, I am also involved with planning and supporting our Clearing activities every summer.
My background
I am a born and bred Brightonian! After A Levels, I spent some time living in Cyprus, working in a hotel entertainment team and managing the kid’s club. When I returned, I worked as a Teaching Assistant. I then decided to pursue a career in teaching and complete a degree in Primary Education. There’s no city quite like Brighton, so studying at the University of Brighton was a no brainer!
After university, I spent time working as a primary school teacher, before moving into a recruitment role, where I was helping graduates to find their first job. I missed working more closely with young people though, so decided to return to the university in my current role.
Why University of Brighton
As the first person in my family to go to university, I was worried I’d struggle academically and find it hard to fit in. As soon as I joined the University of Brighton though, I felt welcomed and incredibly supported to meet my potential. The community here is so diverse and inclusive, with every individual celebrated. I feel super lucky to be back, supporting the next generation of Brighton students!
My interests
Whilst I was studying at the University of Brighton, I joined the cheerleading team and fell in love with the sport. I stayed on the team for 5 years, working my way up to Head Coach. I was also selected to represent Team England at the Cheerleading World Championships in Florida. I’m now sadly retired from competing, but still enjoy attending dance classes. I’m also a lifelong Brighton and Hove Albion fan.
Ask me about
- Our talks and information and guidance sessions for post-16 students
- HE fairs and UCAS events
Get in touch
I'm based at our Moulsecoomb site when on campus, but am often out of the office visiting schools and colleges and attending events. Email me on j.panayi@brighton.ac.uk.
Hannah Lili Ferrigno
My role
In my role as Student Recruitment Assistant, I focus on post-16 students who are interested in studying at the University of Brighton. My role includes delivering talks about important university related information as well as attending HE Fairs at colleges and schools outside Sussex. I speak to students about the University of Brighton and answer any questions they may have. I also attend bigger fairs such as UCAS and UK University Search events around the country and help with internal University of Brighton events.
My background
I am originally from North London but grew up in Hertfordshire. I struggled with dyslexia whilst in school, so I was unsure if university was the right fit for me, but once I started studying my Business BTEC I knew that I wanted to further my knowledge and go to university. I have now finished my second year studying Business Management with Human Resource Management at The University of Brighton. I have found myself in this role by choosing to add a placement year to my degree; this is because I wanted to gain key industry experience but wanted to do more than just sit in an office. This role offers me that opportunity, as I get to travel to various higher education events around the UK. It also means that I get to live in Brighton an extra year which I’m quite excited about!
Why University of Brighton?
The main selling point for me was the flexibility within the courses offered at Brighton, most subjects contain optional modules which allows you to focus on your interests. This makes the courses more enjoyable as they feel tailored to you. Of course, being right next to the sea too is not something you can complain about!
My interests
I have always enjoyed playing netball and since being at university I have retaken up this passion through being a part of the netball society. With my friends we like exploring Brighton and getting a bite to eat.
Ask me about
Get in touch
I'm based at our Moulsecoomb site when on campus, but am often out of the office visiting schools and colleges and attending events. Email me on h.ferrigno@brighton.ac.uk.