"I wanted to thank Steve, Susan, Nigel and Tanya, from the bottom of my heart for being such a wonderful and supportive lecturers as well as supervisors at times, guiding me in the right path, giving me the right vision and also trusting and encouraging me to do better. Also, without the constructive comments and continued guidance extended by Sheela, who happened to be my supervisor for my dissertation, I would have not been able to produce an excellent final project which headed me towards achieving a first class, in my undergraduate life. Once again I sincerely thank Steve, Susan, Tanya, Sheela and Nigel, for your guidance and for being the best lecturers and supervisors that anyone could have. Last, but not least, my heartfelt gratitude goes to the lecturers at NSBM Green University - Sri Lanka, which is affiliated to the University of Plymouth - UK. The fullest support given in my studies as well as in my extra curricular activities, molding me into a strong personality, brimming with self confidence while driving me to achieve the best in my academic life."
Vihangi De Silva, recent graduate
Each year UPSU holds the prestigious SSTAR (Student Staff Teaching and Representation) Awards.These awards recognise the many excellent University staff members and dedicated students we have here at the University of Plymouth.
Discover below what students had to say about our teaching staff.
Nominated in the 'Outstanding Personal Tutor' category.
Danielle has been there since day one when I arrived at University in 2015. She emails for the general catch ups each term, however, I know that she will be there whenever or if ever I need her personally and as a member of the wider staff. She remained professional when teaching me lectures however I still knew I could be honest about quality of lectures and other matters within the institute. Danielle would check up on me if she knew I was having a harder time and would offer up time to talk to me and advise me not just on University matters but personal and placement ideas. She helped me think about placements and also applying for the Santander scholarship in her own time and would never comment if I was taking up too much of her time.
"Danielle has honestly been my go to at University and I really appreciate all of the help she has given me throughout my time when I know how busy she is. She really is an incredible personal tutor personally and at her job at the same time. Thank you so much for helping me throughout my university journey I really appreciate it."
Nominated in the 'Most dedicated dissertation/project supervisor' category.
"I honestly couldn't wish for a better dissertation supervisor. Sheela has gone above and beyond in supporting me throughout the year and has helped me to keep focused in times I would normally panic. I can't thank Sheela enough for everything she has done for me. Despite her busy schedule and all the other responsibilities she holds she never fails to meet me when I ask, respond to my emails quicker than anyone else would and always calming me down when I get in a panic. I have never met anyone so dedicated to their students and I know her other dissertation students would 100 per cent agree. I would like to nominate Sheela for this award as no thank you will ever compare to what she does for us."
Nominated in the 'Most dedicated dissertation/project supervisor' category.
"I feel that Nigel has been an amazing dissertation tutor going above and beyond to always answer any questions or concerns I may have. He answers his emails quickly with an in depth response even after office hours and while he was lecturing in a different country. I feel he wants the best for me and wants to see me succeed which is very motivational. He has created additional learning materials such as podcasts and help sheets with guidance and frequently asked questions from previous years. Nigel is always willing to help and I am very grateful. Thank you!!"
Nominated in the 'Sensational Programme Lead' category.
"Mandy has only just taken over the role from Craig, but I have already had a meeting with her about students concerns and she was supportive of my ideas and eager to find solutions to the concerns. She is also quick to send out opportunities for us to improve our CV and take part in exciting experiences that will enhance our employability in the future. She has made me feel that I can talk to her about University life alongside being approachable about other aspects of student life."
Nominated in the 'Postgraduate teacher/supervisor of the year' category.
"I was an average student when I started my whole journey as a student at Plymouth in 2012. Dr Horner has played a huge part in changing my life around. She has supervised my undergraduate dissertation and it was her inspiration which gave me the courage to go for the CHME conference in Denmark in 2017. Last year I did a postgraduate course and I have had a good time working under the supervision of Dr Horner, which gave me the courage and belief to give my 100%. It was her motivation and support which got me going all throughout the last 3-4 years. Now I am doing my PhD with Susan as my supervisor, which I'm sure is going to the best few years of my studying life. I have to thank no one but Susan for all the support and believing in me to push further with my studying capabilities."
Faculty winner in the Sensational Programme Lead
This award is for a Programme Lead who has made a recognisable difference the student experience at programme level. Tanya has won the faculty level award for BSc (Hons) Events Management 2019.
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