YSJ North East Network – inaugural event

At the end of October, the Alumni and Fundraising team launched the first YSJ North East Network event. After a successful YSJ London Network event earlier in the year, we launched our next chapter in Darlington. All North-East based alumni were invited to join us for an evening of reconnecting with alumni, light refreshments, and even a quiz!

Tales from Alumni

The event launched with a greeting from the Fundraising and Alumni Relations Manager, Louise Gash. Afterwards Alumni Relations and Data Officer, Amy McCarthy, delivered a short speech about her career journey so far. Growing up in Middlesbrough, Amy moved to York in 2014 to study English Literature at York St John University. Since graduating Amy has specialised in writing about music and is currently completing a PhD in English Literature at York St John. Amy’s talk focused on how her upbringing in the North East has influenced her writing and how York St John has impacted her career, both as a student and as a member of staff.

Quiz time

After a quick break to enjoy more food, we tested our alumni’s knowledge of the history of York St John and North East trivia. Each attendee competed to win a £20 voucher to spend at Hash Bar and Kitchen in Darlington. After some close competition, we congratulated Adam and Georgia on winning the quiz!

Making connections

As the evening continued, attendees went around in a circle and introduced themselves, their connection to York St John and what they are currently doing. With everyone in attendance coming from a wide range of careers, it was amazing to showcase the variety of alumni journeys coming from our North East alumni.

We would like to thank everyone who booked on and attended our first YSJ North East Network event. Whether you attended or not, we would love to hear your feedback on future events. Please take a couple of minutes to tell us what you would like to see at a future alumni event by completing our feedback form.