Inside ParaSoc at Surrey
Joining a society is a fantastic way of making new friends, expanding your network and enriching your Surrey experience. We asked ParaSoc president Mel to share her insider info on what the society gets up to and why it’s a great idea to join.
Please tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Mel, I am a second-year student paramedic. I chose to study paramedic science after working in care for many years and feeling like career progression was taking me away from my clients, something I didn’t want to do. Then when Covid hit and the world went a little upside down I realised how much I not only missed working in the community but also how much I enjoy work that’s fast-paced and where no two days are the same. That led me to look at alternative careers and ultimately to studying Paramedic Science at Surrey.
What is the Paramedic Society all about?
The society aims to bring all three years of Paramedic Science students together, alongside anyone else who wishes to join. We want to create a family feel where everyone has someone to turn to for help, advice and friendship. We also aim to aid our members’ educational journey with continuing professional development (CPD) events.
We want to create a family feel where everyone has someone to turn to for help, advice and friendship.
What does your role as president involve? What’s the best thing about it?
My role involves working with the rest of the society’s committee members to plan and organise events such as CPD and socials, and working with the Paramedic Science teaching team to make sure anything we organise complements the course. The best thing about being involved is getting to meet new students, listen to them and hear what they would like to see from the society, and getting to meet new people and gain friendships that will last a long time.
The society is made up of an amazing team and I wouldn’t be able to run it without them!
Why should students join ParaSoc?
Firstly, we’re a friendly, inclusive society who love to have fun and meet new people! Secondly our CPD events are well received and we listen to our members’ views and organise CPD that complements their course and covers specific areas of interest, both for now and beyond university.
What’s the most interesting or exciting event that ParaSoc has been involved in recently?
I think our last CPD session was one of the best yet, with a great turn out of students not only studying Paramedic Science but from other disciplines too, such as the different nursing courses. We are currently organising the ParaSoc Summer Ball and this is set to be the best event of the year!
Make sure to keep up with ParaSoc’s activities on their Instagram: @surreyparasoc.