Caitriona McGrattan, DBS's welfare officer is a vital member of the student services team, as she supports students throughout their studies in any area where they feel they may need assistance, advice or a friendly chat in the SU office. This week she discusses her role at DBS and involvement in college life.

Quick summary of the roles/responsibilities of a Welfare Officer

If I had to describe my role in word one it would be: listener. I am someone that students can come and chat with about anything that’s on their mind; academic anxieties, personal problems, family issues etc - I am essentially the first point of support for all students in DBS 

What is a typical day in the student services department?

Our job is so diverse; there is very little about our role that stays the same from day to day! From our two offices we manage all the DBS Sports teams and Societies, we organise monthly nights out and events (including Freshers’ Week, Halloween Ball and the Annual Formal Event) and we support students through any academic and non-academic issues they may have. We also work with class reps and the Student Council to make sure students’ voices are heard directly by the College.

What is your most memorable DBS event been this year?

We had so many great events this year that it’s hard to pick just one; Freshers’ Week in October, when we welcome all the new students to the College, was great, the Halloween Ball was epic, and Raise And Give Week (RAG Week) was great. But if I had to pick one it would be the Annual Ball and Sports & Societies Awards. It is great to see everyone dressed in their best and the Awards make the night a really special occasion for anyone involved in our teams and student societies.

To learn more about the student services department, please visit our website