0
0
What are your favourite or most impactful events to run with Skirts?
I love running all events that we offer at Skirts but I must say I really enjoy Skirts Chapters and Networking Dinner. Skirts Chapters is like an organised yap sesh every month – haha! It’s a casual space for members to connect and discuss about the monthly book…amongst many other things! On the other hand, there’s Networking Dinner, a more formal event where you engage with industry professionals over a fancy 3-course meal. It is incredibly rewarding to be able to help our members connect with industry professionals through these events.
What do you do to empower newer members totake on future leadership positions and get involved?
I make it a priority to say hi to familiar faces I see at our events and catch up with them on campus. I believe building a deeper connection creates a welcoming environment for people to feel comfortable getting involved. Recently, we have launched a new initiative called the Skirts Sister Program to do just that (kudos to our engagement officer, Yani, for the idea)! This is a solely social focused program to ensure that we bridge the gap between year levels and specialisations.
How did you first get involved with Skirts?
I was first involved with Skirts as a member through my first year of engineering, when I attended their Careers and Cocktails event. It was such good way to put my foot in the door and see what opportunities were out there for me. In my second year, I applied for an executive role after one of my good friends suggested I join the club. From there, I realised how much more Skirts can offer! I have found thesocial events within Skirts to have made myuniversity experience much more valuable.
What led to the creation of Skirts?
Skirts was first created in 2004 and was formed to create a supportive space for women in engineering at UQ. At the time, there were very few women in the field so it was important for them to stick together. I don’t think the founders ever intended for Skirts to become such a big part of UQ societies but I assure you, they must be proud!
What kind of support do you have from faculty and staff members?
The EAIT faculty and staff members have always offered their support. Some examples include providing us with EAIT employability speakers at our events to connecting us to industry professionals. Not only that but they are great with providing guidance when we encounter challenges, which we really appreciate!
Do you have anything parting words for our readers?
To the readers of Semper Floreat, I hope you have learnt more about the UQ Skirts Engineering society. Skirts is all about creating a welcoming and supportive environment where members can thrive both socially and professionally. We always have our members’ best interests at heart and we would love to see more people get involved!
Written by Jester Roach
Author
Views: 1