Alumna Kelly Dubock is organising a September reunion
Kelly Dubock graduated from Portsmouth with a BA (Hons) Russian and Soviet Studies. Today she works for the University as Market Research and Analysis Manager. And she’s a 30th Anniversary Reunion Ambassador.
Happy memories
I remember my first day as a fresher in 1994. It was incredibly nerve-wracking, as I didn’t know anyone, but some of my favourite memories are of meeting my lifelong friends.
I know if I need them at any point, they would be there for me. We have memories in common and that is something I cherish.
I also loved my year abroad. My experience of Russia was that of recent liberation. Some people were scared of change but it was also a place with new opportunities. I saw some of the best – and cheapest – operas and ballets I am ever likely to see. I even received a marriage proposal! Alas, Sacha was merely asking for the potential passport to avoid military service.
My husband, who I met during my studies at The Fleet pub, and I have a son. Sticking to family tradition, he is now in his final year at Portsmouth.
Our plans are not concrete yet, but on Saturday 10 September we’ll probably visit Park Building and attend the day events organised by the Alumni Team across campus. Then, in the evening, we’ll plan a good old student pub crawl.
Reunion plans
Now it’s 25 years on and I’m helping to organise a big reunion. I’m anticipating around 30 of us in total, with at least one virtual attendee from Australia too.
Our plans are not concrete yet, but on Saturday 10 September we’ll probably visit Park Building and attend the day events organised by the Alumni Team across campus. Then, in the evening, we’ll plan a good old student pub crawl.
We’ve invited Paul Flenly, one of our lecturers at the time who still works at the Uni, and we might have a few others.
People are excited about the meet-up – it's going to be great to have some proper face-to-face conversations!
Did you graduate from BA (Hons) Russia and Soviet Studies between 1995–1998 and fancy attending this reunion? Or are you feeling inspired to help with a reunion of your own? Get in touch with the Alumni team today: alumni@port.ac.uk.