Jo Hoskins, Student Disability and Welfare Advisor

Jo joined Univ in November last year but has worked at the University of Oxford for several years and before that, she studied and worked at The Open University. Read on to find out more about Jo. 

How did you come to Univ?
My time at Univ started in November 2023 and followed four years in Wellington Square as part of the Focus team in UAS, and a year at the Department for Continuing Education. Before that, I worked in information, advice and guidance at The Open University, where I also completed coaching and counselling qualifications.

What does the role of Student Disability and Welfare Advisor involve?
The role of Student Disability and Welfare Advisor involves helping students to navigate college and university processes, such as disclosing health-related information and applying for appropriate adjustments or dispensations, as well as being a grounded source of support for students experiencing difficult circumstances. I also advocate for the student voice in college and university settings.

Do you have any advice for current students?
Advice for current students is difficult, as everyone experiences their time here differently, but there is something to be said for trying not to take any notice of what other people around you are doing. There are always going to be students who do “better” than you, who read more, produce more work, or appear to be on top of things and make it look easy. Their performance is irrelevant to your degree so try to measure yourself against your own standards, not theirs. Oh, and try not to lose your Bod card!

Are there any myths about Univ or the University that you would like to dispel?
The myth about the University that I’d like to dispel is the belief that you must be a certain type of person to fit in here. One of the most brilliant things about Oxford is that there are all sorts of people, with all sorts of histories and viewpoints, and there is space for every single niche that you might want to carve out or occupy.

Is there a question you would like to answer? If so, please feel free to do so!
I would like students to know that disclosing a disability, health or welfare circumstance never reflects badly on you. No one goes through life able to manage everything alone, and we have disability and welfare staff for a reason so, even though it might feel scary, asking for help is the responsible and mature thing to do.

What’s your favourite part of Univ?
My favourite parts of Univ so far are how polite everyone is and the buildings. It’s a peaceful, beautiful place to be.

Describe Univ in three words.
Friendly, handsome, supportive

Published: 22 January 2024

Explore Univ on social media