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.
Niamh Smith
My role
My role as Student Recruitment Assistant involves encouraging post-16 students to come to the University of Brighton by attending higher education fairs outside the Brighton and Sussex area. I also deliver talks about student life using my first-hand experience. The role also includes attending larger scale events such as UCAS or UK University Search exhibitions.
My background
I grew up in Hertfordshire where I studied my GCSEs and went onto studying politics, history and psychology A-levels. I was unsure on which route to take when looking into university, however I knew that I wanted to further my studies in the direction of social sciences. I found the course International Events Management with Marketing at the University of Brighton, which really excited me due to it encapsulating both the aspects of social sciences I find fascinating whilst involving the vibrant and dynamic events industry. Now having completed two years of my course I am incredibly happy with the decision I made due to not only the course enabling a marriage of my interests but also being situated in the thriving cultural scene and diverse community of Brighton. When the option to partake in a placement year arose, I embraced the opportunity to work with the university's marketing and communications department in student recruitment. This role has proven the perfect fit as it has not only allowed me to gain key experience in working in marketing but also granted me a unique perspective on the events industry with the opportunity to attend various events.
Why University of Brighton?
Choosing to study at Brighton was an easy option for me, as soon as I had decided on my course, I knew that Brighton was where I wanted to be based. The course structure as well as the location being filled with countless opportunities and the city's inclusive ethos has really made Brighton feel like home.
My interests
I really enjoy going to the gym as well as long walks and hikes. I also love attending events with my friends especially festivals and other music events. Going to the beach is one of my favourite things to do whilst in Brighton whether it's for a walk or a BBQ and some drinks!
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 n.e.smith@brighton.ac.uk.