Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist with graduation events, manage ticketing, and provide guest support.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham, a leading global university with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Paid training, flexible hours, and a chance to be part of a memorable celebration.
- Why this job: Be a key player in celebrating academic achievements and creating unforgettable experiences.
- Qualifications: Energetic, proactive, and approachable individuals with a positive service attitude.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with diverse people and excellent transport links.
Funding, Graduation and Awards are looking to recruit a team of enthusiastic and proactive students to undertake a variety of roles during the week of December Degree Congregations between Friday 5th December and Monday 15th December. All roles will also be required to attend a paid training and set-up day on Friday 5th December (10:00-13:00). Smart clothing is not required (nor recommended) for the set-up day. All roles will be expected to work part-time (up to 20 hours) each week.
Responsibilities
- Staffing the ticket desk, and managing certificate collection which requires attention to detail and a professional demeanour;
- Providing directional advice to many visitors and answering questions about the events and various buildings where graduation activity takes place;
- Understanding the logistics and running schedule of the day, as you may be asked questions about the schedule of proceedings;
- Managing the flow of graduates in the Great Hall, helping us to ensure that they go up on stage in the correct order;
- Managing the flow of guests into and out of the Great Hall, in line with safety requirements;
- Keeping the venues clean and tidy;
- Helping to get the venue ready between ceremonies;
- Helping guests and graduates with accessibility requirements and special requests.
These are formal events so the dress code is business wear (smart, comfortable shoes, shirt with collar and smart trousers or skirt), though please note that smart clothing is not required (nor recommended) for the set-up and training day on Friday 5th of December.
Qualifications
- Proactive - Graduations welcome many guests to The University of Birmingham, who might have never visited campus before. Being proactive to step in if you spot guests (or graduates) who look like they may need some extra assistance in finding their way to help the day run smoothly.
- Energetic - Working in a customer facing role will require lots of interaction, and multiple ceremonies each day, so it is important to maintain a consistent positive energy and motivation throughout the course of the week, upholding an excellent experience for graduation attendees.
- Approachable - For all students and guests, this is an important and exciting day, having student ushers who can provide a friendly and reassuring face means that if any unexpected situations do arise attendees have someone to speak to.
- Enthusiastic - providing a positive and welcoming experience for all guests and students as this is an important celebration of academic achievement.
- Comfortable in a public facing role - speaking to new people, and welcoming graduating students and their guests to the celebrations and helping to ensure that everything runs smoothly for them on the day.
- Have a high degree of dedication - for example catering to guests with additional needs and ensuring the safety and comfort of guests in possibly challenging weather conditions as it may be very cold/wet during this time.
- Attention to detail - for example staffing the ticket desk: our Great Hall has limited guest capacity as such being aware of our ticketing constraints and adhering to them, so it is highly important that those working on the day show great attention to detail.
- Professional demeanour - some roles will require you to be on your feet for longer periods of time than others, such as ushering, being able to maintain professionalism throughout the shift is essential.
- Positive service attitude - for example if a student brings more than the permitted 2 guests, it will be important to show care and courtesy in politely dealing with these individuals to let them know that they may have to queue up for additional tickets and it is possible that not everyone will be able to sit in the Great Hall.
- Ability to order own duties within a schedule set by your supervisor - checking in and asking questions if there is something you are not sure about, one role includes distributing certificates and transcripts, important and confidential documents, to students, here it will be essential that you feel comfortable to independently carry out these tasks giving the correct graduate their documents.
- Ability to be flexible in terms of work practices/requirements - being adaptable to change roles if needed on the day, you may have to staff the ticket desk or work the cloak room or be an usher within the marble reception of the Great Hall.
- Ability to work as part of a team - there will be many ushers so being able to work with a range of different people each shift, and coordinate your responsibilities is essential.
About the University
The University of Birmingham is proud to have been a part of the City of Birmingham and the wider region for over 100 years, and we are equally proud to be recognised as a leading global university. We want to attract talented people from across the city and beyond, support them to succeed, and celebrate their success. We believe there is no such thing as a typical member of staff and that diversity is a source of strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation, and debate. We warmly welcome people from all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is at the heart of who and what we are, and how we work. The University is situated in leafy Edgbaston and there are excellent transport links to our beautiful campus, including main bus routes and a train station on site. On campus we have a state‑of‑the‑art sports centre with pool, shops, places to eat and drink, our own art gallery, museum and botanical gardens.
Student Casual - Graduation Usher - Academic Services - Grade 2 - 906960 employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Casual - Graduation Usher - Academic Services - Grade 2 - 906960
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the event schedule inside out! Familiarise yourself with the timings and logistics of the graduation ceremonies. This way, when guests ask questions, you’ll be the go-to person for information, making you stand out as a proactive usher.
✨Tip Number 2
Bring your A-game energy! Remember, you’re part of a celebration, so keep that positive vibe flowing. Your enthusiasm will not only help you connect with graduates and their families but also create a memorable experience for everyone involved.
✨Tip Number 3
Be approachable and ready to assist! Keep an eye out for anyone who looks lost or confused. A friendly smile and a helping hand can make all the difference, ensuring that guests feel welcomed and supported throughout the day.
✨Tip Number 4
Dress smartly and comfortably! While the set-up day doesn’t require formal attire, remember that graduation days do. Wear something that looks professional but allows you to move around easily, especially since you’ll be on your feet a lot!
We think you need these skills to ace Student Casual - Graduation Usher - Academic Services - Grade 2 - 906960
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to making graduation a memorable experience for everyone.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight your relevant skills and experiences. We’re looking for proactive and approachable individuals, so share examples that demonstrate these qualities in your application.
Keep It Professional: Even though we want to see your personality, remember this is a formal event. Use a professional tone in your writing and ensure your application is well-structured and free from typos. A polished application shows us you’re serious about the role!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Graduation Usher. Familiarise yourself with the logistics of the event, such as ticketing and guest management. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're proactive and detail-oriented.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
This role is all about providing a positive experience for graduates and their guests. During the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through! Share examples of how you've maintained a positive attitude in previous roles, especially in customer-facing situations.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Being part of a team is crucial for this position. Be prepared to discuss your experiences working collaboratively with others. Highlight any instances where you adapted to changes or supported your teammates to ensure everything ran smoothly.
✨Dress the Part (But Not Too Smart!)
While smart clothing is required for the actual event, remember that the training day is more relaxed. However, still aim for a neat appearance to show that you take the opportunity seriously. This balance will demonstrate your understanding of the role's requirements.