Not just work -- Tuesday 4 April 2006

Another double shift, this time late afternoon and evening.

Calling during the daytime allows the students to contact alumni in many different countries which are not accessible during regular night-time calling sessions.

Total to date is just over £43,000.

But it's not just work.

Games are organised, which break up the calling sessions. Prizes include chocolates, scratchcards and/or bottles of wine. It's all part of the endeavour to make the job enjoyable and fun, and to allow the callers to get to know each other on a more personal level.

Many good friendships result from the camaraderie in the call centre. As well, the university benefits because many of the student callers go on to become ambassadors and Guild executive members. For these students, giving back happens long before graduation.

Best student quote of the night: "This guy is so enthusiastic about Aston and has so much passion at such an age it puts me to shame."

Worst reaction of the night, (from student notes): "He said it was a cheek for us to send a pensioner the letter. When I explained that it was fine that he didnt wanna make a donation and that I still wanted to chat to him about his experiences, he told me to 'bugger off' and that he didn't want to talk to me!"

Stars of the night include:

Sonny
Joseph
Gareth
Shil
Jessica