Spotlight on... Sofia Gradoni

What is your role and what does it involve?

I am a Programme Administrator for MA Mathematics Education and MA Education (Geography), my role includes caring for the students on the programme. I see my role through a supportive lens. Sometimes life can be hectic for everyone and having someone make it a bit easier can make all the difference. I know that I always appreciate it if someone goes the extra mile, so I try to ensure the students on my programmes feel that they are in safe hands and can reach out if they need some help.

How long have you been at UCL and what was your previous role?

Prior to working at UCL, I was an Associate Director for Julius Baer, Swiss Private Bank. I worked in private banking for 10 years, and while I enjoyed many aspects of the finance world, it is a harsh environment to be in. I took a long career break to start a family and joined UCL a year and a half ago. I absolutely love it here and am blown away by the culture of respect, tolerance and inclusivity.

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?

I am most proud of being a member of the LGBTQ+ Advisory Group, this has allowed me to start the LGBTQ+ Parents and Families group, along with my Co-Chair Chris Wilkinson.

Tell us about a project you are working on now which is top of your to-do list

Fully establishing the LGBTQ+ Parents and Families Group. We are having our first meeting at 10am on 6 June. This is the first meeting of its kind at UCL, and we are excited to be able to mould this group into something useful for our community as a whole. We intend to provide a welcoming and supportive environment, as well as clarifying some of the HR issues that can surround LGBTQ+ family life.

What is your favourite album, film and novel?

My favourite album is 4 by Beyonce.

My favourite film is Dave. If anyone has heard of this and actually watched it, I will eat my hat!

My favourite novel is Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela.

What is your favourite joke (pre-watershed)?

What did the cheese say when it looked in the mirror?

Hallou mi!

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

Michelle Obama – I love her down-to-earth, common sense, relatable advice, backed by a high level education.

Charles Dickens – for bringing some real change to the UK through holding up a mirror to society.

Michelle Buteau and Ellen Degeneres as they would be super interesting and utterly hilarious too.

What advice would you give your younger self?

You have the right to be here. Don’t believe the imposter syndrome, and, you probably know more than half of the people in the room who haven’t bothered to do any prep.

What would it surprise people to know about you?

I am qualified to provide Investment Advice.

What is your favourite place?  

On the balcony of a small family-run restaurant in Italy, where they produce all of their own food and wine, as they have done for generations, in the middle of nowhere, overlooking the fields. Sitting in the shade, away from the hot midday sun, drinking some sparkling, chilled red wine. Yes, I did say red.