Olivia Adams plays a key role in planning and delivering strategic recruitment events within the Student Recruitment Division at SU. From large-scale initiatives such as the Undergraduate Open Day to personalised campus experiences, she is passionate about creating meaningful connections between prospective students and the University.

 What does your role at SU entail?

In my role within the Student Recruitment Division, I focus on planning and delivering institutional events and strategic engagement opportunities that connect prospective students, their families, as well as school principals and educators with SU. This includes coordinating key initiatives such as SU Undergraduate Open Day, campus visits, webinars and award ceremonies. At the heart of what I do is creating experiences that feel welcoming, informative and truly memorable, giving people a genuine sense of what it means to be part of the University.

What does a typical day at work look like?
My day usually starts with a cup of coffee, followed by a diverse and dynamic schedule – no two days are ever the same. My work involves a balance of planning, coordination, benchmarking and stakeholder engagement. This includes liaising with faculties, overseeing event logistics, engaging with schools and partners and responding to enquiries related to the Recruitment Office.

During major events, my role becomes more hands-on and operational, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and that every detail comes together as planned. It’s fast-paced but incredibly rewarding to see it all unfold.

How did your education or past experiences prepare you for this job?

My journey at SU began 15 years ago in Student Recruitment, where my passion for working with prospective students first developed. I was always curious to learn more about school engagement, which led me to start attending parent evenings and becoming more involved in recruitment activities.

Over time, I took on different roles that broadened my experience. As Personal Assistant to the Senior Director of Student Recruitment, I gained valuable insight into strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. I later supported the ISFAP project (Ikusasa Student Financial Aid), where I was involved in administrative coordination and event planning for bursary recipients.

I then joined the Corporate Communication and Marketing Division as part of the Institutional Events team. During this time, we had to adapt quickly to a virtual environment during Covid-19, which challenged us to think creatively and deliver high-quality online events. A highlight of my time with this team was planning and executing the University’s first open-air graduation – an unforgettable milestone.

Most recently, I have come full circle, returning to Student Recruitment as a Recruitment Events Coordinator. My academic background, together with this diverse professional experience, has equipped me with strong organisational, communication and stakeholder management skills. It has also prepared me to manage large-scale projects and events with confidence, adaptability and attention to detail.

What do you enjoy most about your role and working at SU?

I find it especially rewarding to bring learners from diverse backgrounds to campus, where they can experience our academic environment, explore facilities such as laboratories and engage with student life through campus tours. Being part of the moment when a learner begins to envision their future at SU is both meaningful and motivating.

Another favourite aspect of my job is my colleagues. They are always there to support me, and it’s all hands on deck for campus events. I also value the strong sense of collaboration across faculties and support services, and their shared commitment to guiding prospective students in their decision-making journey. It’s inspiring to be part of a team that is so invested in making a difference.

Tell us something about yourself that few people would expect.

Outside of my professional role, I enjoy spending time with my family and creating meaningful memories together. Recently, we’ve started going on 4x4 trips, and I’ve really enjoyed exploring the mountains and coastline in this way. I never thought I’d be this brave – driving up the mountains or along the beach! I’m also looking forward to taking that sense of adventure a step further with a few motorbike trips in the near future.