At HSDC we have a number of highly-skilled, dedicated and passionate staff.
They go above and beyond to help our students reach their full potential. We want to shout about these integral members of our HSDC community, so every month we will be finding out about the people behind our teaching excellence with our ‘Staff in the Spotlight’ feature.
This month we are recognising Nadia Arab, who is a lecturer in Information Technology on our South Downs campus.
How long have you worked at the College?
Almost 17 years
Why did you choose the subject that you teach?
Because I have a huge passion for technology and the digital world. I like how technology is always changing and it allows me to learn as well as be creative and teach students. It’s a great subject and it’s one which is required in all businesses.
What was your journey/training before coming to HSDC?
I worked at Waitrose for eight years in customer service and then left there then became a fitness instructor, which I still do right now. I graduated with a BSc Hons in Sociology gaining a 2:1 and then did my Master’s degree in Information Systems and my PGCE. At the time I was working in digital marketing using a range of technologies. I ran my own business in I.T training.
Do you practice the subject you teach outside of work?
Over a year ago I started my own business in IT training. This is great as I could share my knowledge. I helped local businesses in computing skills as well as taught users on social media and how to promote their business.
In normal times I work as a fitness instructor in Roko and Pyramids, which is completely the opposite of IT, but it helps me to develop social skills and help others achieve their goals. I love seeing people succeed which for me is a key into why I do what I do!
What is the highlight of your role at HSDC?
Being part of the Digital T Level development team. Also, a huge highlight would be seeing my Level 3 groups achieve so well that some have become IT business owners.
What kind of careers have your students gone on to do?
- ICT technician
- programmers
- web designers
- some have started their own business in IT
- games designers
What is something about your job that people don’t know?
That I am a trained personal trainer and group fitness instructor. Also, I mentor and encourage girls into IT.
What three words would your students use to describe you?
- fun
- organised
- creative
How do you relax outside of work?
I am about to launch an Indian cookbook which has taken me three years and incorporates digital technologies. I see it as a fun project. I love to travel, read books as well as walk run and meditate.