University of Essex Students - Improve Your Job Prospects And Make a Contribution

Case Study Joanie DeMuro, Content Administrator and Researcher.  

Joanie joined ABC team in early 2017. She was one of six student volunteers from the University of Essex in that cohort. The student team focused on a range of projects, including creation of Wikipedia page, ‘training manual’ and most importantly, researching and adding entries to the website directory of organisations that assist the unwaged, or those on low incomes. This is valuable work, as many of these organisations do not have large marketing budgets to promote themselves. Joanie was a real team player, understanding the necessity of accuracy and having the ability to meet deadlines.

Student results were measured with the use of sophisticated Goalscape software that allowed all team members and their management to see their progress and the progress of the organisation.

Image: Goalscape software.

“In this volunteering position, I created content on the ABC website by adding entries to the directory such as basic contact details and the logo of different organisations. To do this, I researched organisations that can help or benefit all people. I then created a short narrative about what the organisation does and then create a short entry to publish to the website” – says Joanie.

Additionally, “this placement was very helpful with improving my written communication skills. I loved how it allowed me to experience editing website content and made me more confident in that area. This placement also allowed me to improve my research skills, a necessity when going into a professional work environment. I learned that many times when researching, you need to dig deep and take your time when finding the best content" – she concludes.

“Thanks for the opportunity Simon.”

Joanie was offered this placement through vTeam – University of Essex Students’ Union team that helps students get an amazing degree and job. vTeam understands the value of the collaboration between the community and students. Partnership with ABC enable not only the ABC grow, but also give students necessary and vital real-work experience.  These factors brought to bear and gave Joanie experience which will help her stand out in the job market. ABC and vTeam appointed more than eight students this year and we are pleased to say a lot of students voluntarily extended their placement with the ABC. 

Simon Collyer ABC Founder and CEO said this: ‘Joanie was a top team member, reliable conscientious and hard-working.  She made an outstanding contribution both individually and creatively. We proud of Joanie’s contribution and we wish her an exciting, prosperous future’.

ABC: Calling all Essex University students - do you want to join our team? PLEASE click on the logo below: