Meet our staff: Karin Wester, study counsellor
Karin has worked as a study counsellor at the University of Gothenburg for ten years. In recent years, she has been working at the Department of education, communication and learning. Here, she provides support and guidance to preschool teacher students and other students with various needs and challenges.
Why did you apply for the position at the University of Gothenburg?
During my education to become a study counsellor, there were a few of us who were already working as study counsellors. One of my classmates was an employee at the University of Gothenburg, and she spoke very highly of her workplace. I decided that's where I wanted to work. I applied and got a position as a study counsellor at the Sahlgrenska Academy.
What might a typical workday look like?
On a typical workday, I arrive at the office, read and respond to emails, and then we have telephone hours between 9 and 10. After that, there might be meetings, programme councils, educational meetings, or other staff meetings on the schedule. But the majority of my time is spent meeting students. Some days, I have scheduled student visits almost every hour, which I find really enjoyable.
At the start of each term, I'm always there to welcome the new students and inform them about the assistance I can provide. It feels important to be visible to the students so they know who they can turn to if they have questions about their education or if they encounter any obstacles during their studies.
What's the best thing about working at the University of Gothenburg?
In addition to the students, I have very pleasant and competent colleagues. We help each other, and we have good collaboration between and within the faculties.
It's also a fantastic environment to work in. I appreciate the freedom I have in my work and that I manage my own schedule. Our benefits such as wellness hours and seven weeks of vacation are also something I appreciate.
As a study counsellor, we receive targeted skills development in areas such as counselling techniques, environmental analysis, and internationalisation, which is a privilege. All of this helps me develop in my role as a study counsellor.