Spotlight: Ioanna Charchanti, Lecturer at QA Higher Education

Learning is a lifelong journey

I have been working in higher education all my life. And, when I am not teaching, I am studying. I have completed two master’s degrees and an MBA, and I am in the process of applying for a fellowship programme.

As you can tell, I enjoy learning- learning from my peers, from my students, and from more structured settings as well. That is what makes QA Higher Education a great fit for me. Other than the ample training available, being exposed to and working closely with people from different cultures is a great source of learning- it is inspiring!

Unearthing true potential

I have been a teacher for as long as I can remember. Passing on knowledge, moulding students, and helping them discover their true potential to achieve a better life for themselves, is truly gratifying.

I encounter a lot of mature students, who come from backgrounds where being able to afford this opportunity is a luxury. They are hardworking and determined to be better and do better for themselves and their families in this county and back home. It takes courage to decide to study overseas, especially when you have other pressing responsibilities. Yet, so many of my students beat these odds and look to us for guidance to help them achieve their dreams.

Being able to support my students, not just with their studies, but helping them adapt to life in the UK and imparting general life lessons to help with their career is something I feel honoured to be able to do. They are like sponges, eager and ready to soak up as much as they can- their enthusiasm is infectious.

Paying it forward

It was not too long ago that I myself was a mature student studying in the UK. So, I have a good grasp of what it is like being in a foreign country and away from family and friends. Because of this I try and go the extra mile to take interest in my students’ overall well-being- small gestures can go a long way.

For instance, acknowledging and celebrating their different cultural days or remembering their naming day or birthday and wishing them.

We often have a potluck organised around festivals- students from all backgrounds can bring food from their culture and share it with the class. It is a great way to celebrate their culture and makes them feel more included in a foreign environment. It is also a great way to get conversations flowing, exchange ideas and to learn about different cultures, customs, and countries.