Our supporter community is made up of passionate individuals who share a deep connection to the University of Liverpool and a commitment to making a difference. In our Donor Spotlight series, we’re proud to introduce some of the generous alumni and friends whose support helps create opportunities and enrich the student experience. Today we talk to regular donor and legacy pledger Janet Edwards (BA Geography 1975), who shares her memories from her time at Liverpool and what motivated her to support today’s students.
What inspired you to study geography, and why did you choose the University of Liverpool?
I was inspired to study geography because of my love of the outdoors, and I had a strong interest in physical geography. I quickly realised that there was so much more to geography when I commenced my degree at Liverpool.
I chose Liverpool because the academic department had an excellent reputation, and the city of Liverpool fascinated me. As a child living only thirty miles away, my father would often take my brother and I there to walk around the docks that were still operational.
What are some of your most memorable experiences from your time at university?
I met three friends on my first day and we remain friends to this day. We were all in rooms in old Rankin Hall, as the new hall we were destined for Morton House was not yet ready. We moved into Morton in the summer term of 1973 and remained there in the academic year 1973/74.
My most memorable experience was becoming the first hall president of Morton, and in the summer of 1974, I had to host a formal dinner, sit next to the Vice Chancellor and give a speech. It was an amazing experience, and I received a lovely letter from the Vice Chancellor thanking me.
The opportunity to go to the theatre was also something special, seeing plays at The Everyman and the Liverpool Playhouse.
How has your education shaped your career and who you are today?
My education at Liverpool meant everything to me. I was an 11 plus failure, so to progress through the education system and go to university was so special to me. I was the first in my family to attend university. University gave me confidence, it taught me so much, leadership, independence, and academic approaches to learning.
All the above have shaped my life in my profession which was that of a Midwife and away from my working life, I led a successful campaign to save a Grade 2* listed building Bank Hall. This saw me on national television and local radio.
What motivated you to give back to the University and support students?
I simply want others to have the opportunity to have the experiences I had. Life is so different in the 21st century compared to the 70’s, but the experience of independence, new ideas and culture never change.
I want to give back something to Liverpool University in return for what it gave me.
What advice would you give to current students at the University?
Embrace university life to the full, your course, your friends the various societies you can join. It is tough sometimes, but the rewards will remain with you all your life.
Our donors are a big part of what makes the University of Liverpool community so special. A huge thank you to Janet for sharing her story with us!
Feeling inspired? If you'd like to share your own story, please get in touch giving@liverpool.a.uk or find out more about the impact of giving on our website.