What is a name? 

Have you ever come across a name you’re not sure how to pronounce? Does your name have a story behind it? These are a few of the questions which we explore with the MyName project, led by the Student Success & Engagement Team within Student Services. 

The MyName project showcases the University of Reading’s diverse staff and student community, through a series of blogs, videos and stories. The aim of the project is to raise cultural awareness, tapping into the story that lies behind a name and to encourage conversations, helping build connections with both fellow students and staff.  

Our names are so much more than just a label that is assigned to us. They play a prominent role in our identities, are part of our culture, family history, beliefs, goals and more. Whether it is the name that we were given at birth, or one that we chose for ourselves, our names are a part of who we are. 

Learning the meaning behind our names can be an enlightening experience. Our names are a core part of who we are; be proud of it, own it, live it!  

Each name has a story behind it. What’s yours? 

The project accepts submissions from students and staff, and there are many ways you can get involved:

• Record a short video of yourself talking about your name, how to pronounce it and what it means. Feel free to explain the background of your name, any interesting stories about it and what it means to you on a personal level. 

• If you don't want to record a video, you can also submit an audio recording, blog or other style of written content exploring the points above. 

The Student Success and Engagement Team share regular videos and stories as part of the MyName project across our Student Life channels, including the Student Life Blog, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter (lookout for the #MyNameMyStory handle). Videos will also be collated in a dedicated YouTube playlist. 

To find out more or to make a submission, please email studentcomms@reading.ac.uk.