By Fariha Rahman, Student Intern

Hello, new students! Welcome to the vibrant community of the University of Manchester! As you embark on this exciting journey, there’s a unique opportunity you absolutely need to know about: the Stellify Award. This award is your ticket to enhancing personal development, making a real impact, and boosting your graduate outcomes—all alongside your academic pursuits. Intrigued? Let’s dive in!

What is the Stellify Award?

The Stellify Award is a prestigious accolade offered by the University of Manchester designed to support your personal growth and professional readiness. It’s not just about academic success; it’s about making a difference in ways that resonate with your passions and interests. Through volunteering, taking on leadership roles, and tackling ethical grand challenges, you’ll be prepared for life after university, entering the workforce with confidence and a well-rounded experience.

Undergraduates

As an undergraduate, the Stellify Award offers a variety of activities that you can tailor to fit around your studies and interests. Here’s how you can earn it:

1. Complete at least two Ethical Grand Challenge Activities:

• Sustainability Challenge (Year 1)
• Social Justice Challenge (Year 2)
• Workplace Ethics Challenge (Year 3 or final year)

2. Volunteer for 25 Hours:

• Find opportunities on Volunteer Hub or discover your own.
• Record all volunteering activities on Volunteer Hub to ensure they count towards the award.

3. Undertake Two Approved Leadership Roles:

• Alternatively, you can hold one leadership role for two years.
• Check the list of approved leadership roles and application procedures.

Benefits and Recognition

By actively participating and logging your activities, you’ll receive a certificate at graduation and an update to your Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR), recognising your extracurricular achievements.

Eligibility

All undergraduate students who started in September 2016 or later are eligible, including Direct Entry students (excluding Study Abroad or Exchange students). If you’re unsure about your eligibility, check the requirements or contact stellify@manchester.ac.uk.

Postgraduates

New for September 2023, the Stellify Award has been extended to master’s students. Here’s your path to earning the award:

1. Complete Any Two Ethical Grand Challenge Activities:

• Sustainability Challenge
• Social Justice Challenge
• Workplace Ethics Challenge

If you completed these challenges as an undergraduate, you’ll need to tackle the ones you missed, plus two extra modules from the Social Justice Challenge.

2. Volunteer for 10 Hours:

• Again, use the Volunteer Hub to find or log your activities.
• Complete the volunteering within your Masters year.

3. Take on a Champions Role: Engage in roles that influence change for the student population, such as leadership roles, Student Partner Intern roles, or student ambassador positions.

Reflecting on Your Experience

After completing the required components, you’ll need to submit a short reflection piece via Shortlist.me. This final step involves answering three questions to help you articulate the skills and experiences you’ve gained. This reflection is invaluable for when you discuss your Stellify Award with future employers.

How to Track Your Progress

To ensure all your activities are recorded: Log volunteering hours on Volunteer Hub (except for University Sports Volunteer Scheme, which is logged separately). Check your progress by contacting the activity owner or emailing stellify@manchester.ac.uk. Most HEAR uploads are completed by June 21st each year, so if an activity doesn’t show up immediately, it’s normal. Patience is key!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Manchester Leadership Programme Part of the Stellify Award?

No, the Manchester Leadership Programme is a separate award that involves completing a Leadership in Action course and volunteering for a bronze, silver, or gold award.

What If I Have Extenuating Circumstances?

If you face challenges that prevent you from completing the Stellify Award, contact stellify@manchester.ac.uk for an Extenuating Circumstances application form. Your case will be reviewed individually.

What If I’m Not Graduating but Have Completed the Stellify Award?

You can still receive the Stellify Award certificate, which will be mailed to your home address even if you don’t pass your degree.

Ready to Stellify Your University Experience?

The Stellify Award is more than just a certificate—it’s a journey that shapes you into a proactive, socially responsible, and confident individual. So, why not take the leap? Engage in the activities, log your experiences, and make the most of your time at the University of Manchester. Welcome aboard, and here’s to making a difference!

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