Faces of Reading

I was encouraged by my first manager to use my initiative, to have the courage to develop new processes, to learn about different roles within the wider team and to volunteer for new opportunities – and this is a philosophy I have carried throughout my career. Early on I was also encouraged by a colleague to apply for a secondment, something I would not have independently considered. When I secured my first secondment, I was able to expand my knowledge, my experience and my network further.

Over the past 13 years I have held five different roles, ranging from school-based administration to centralised quality assurance and exams, and now as Head of Timetabling and Booking. I have always enjoyed the huge variety of the roles I have held. No one day is the same and I work with a range of colleagues from both academic and professional services.

The thing I enjoy most about Reading is the School I work in, both the staff and the students. Everyone is supportive and friendly and will stop to have a chat. We do our work but we also do have time to catch-up as well. Because I’m the Programmes Director, I also get involved with the Reading University Construction Society (RUCS), as well as the University's Ghana Student Society.

I’ve been given the opportunity to grow in what I do, and I think Reading gives everyone that opportunity – you just have to be yourself, and take it. Regardless of where you come from, grasp the opportunity and go with it.

I currently work in the School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences and Pharmacy in my role as a Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice and the Pharmacy Director of Teaching and Learning. I work with an inspiring, motivating and diverse team of academics who all pride themselves on producing a workforce who has the passion, drive and the motivation to deliver the patient-centred care and positive health outcomes. 

I am a British Indian and fall into the BAME category. I have been thoroughly supported in my time at the University of Reading, with opportunities to develop my leadership, assertiveness and overall management skills. I have been supported to develop and take on additional roles including module convenor, Pharmacy Director of Teaching and Learning and the University Chair for the Student Discipline Committee. The support and development at the University has enabled me to secure leadership positions elsewhere and in January 2021 I became a General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) Accreditation and Recognition Panel member.

The continued support I have received at the University of Reading enables me to bring my passion into the classroom and ensure that my enthusiasm converts into an inspiring learning experience. I take immense pride in witnessing the ‘light-bulb’ moment and take great pleasure in being part of the student’s journey. I am passionate about nurturing the next cohort of enthusiastic pharmacists, who hold ethics, patient health and values as close to their hearts as I do.

The tutors said I should think about going to university, so I applied to Reading and quit my job to do a sociology degree. I was 32, with children, and was surrounded by 18-year-olds. It was probably the hardest thing I did, trying to manage everything, but it was great.

I graduated in 2003, did a master's and went straight into a PhD. I got a scholarship, which meant my fees were paid in exchange for teaching. I got a job as a research assistant and then lecturer. I really didn't have a vision of where I was going, but every step of the way, I met people who encouraged me.

My current role is Professor in the Institute of Education, and I have a number of leadership responsibilities. My research focuses on aspirations, gender and widening participation. I like to do work and research that's empowering.

The University is made up of lots of different people from different backgrounds and situations. If you want to come, you can and you can make a success of yourself.