When Molly Stoker-Diver first joined the University of Exeter's temporary staff bank after completing her Masters, she could hardly have imagined where her career would lead. But today, she is Accreditation and Rankings Officer in the University's Business School and is firmly on the path to building her leadership potential having just completed Aurora, Advance HE’s leadership development programme for women in HE.
From uncertainty to opportunity
After a number of years working part-time in hospitality at the National Trust throughout her education, Molly transitioned into various roles within the University of Exeter after the completion of her Masters. While she had the qualifications and experience, she felt something was holding her back from pursuing more ambitious opportunities.
"I felt like I had the skills, but I wasn't sure I believed in myself enough to put myself forward," Molly reflects.
The Aurora experience
Completing Aurora as part of the 2024/25 cohort proved to be a turning point. The programme's unique blend of virtual collaboration and in-person connection created an environment where meaningful transformation could occur.
"I found Aurora really beneficial, particularly with boosting my confidence," Molly explains. "I spoke with so many new and lovely people both in breakout rooms on Zoom and during the in-person day. It was so interesting speaking with many inspiring women and hearing their stories."
This networking aspect of Aurora goes beyond traditional professional development. By connecting participants with peers facing similar challenges, Aurora creates a supportive community that extends far beyond the formal sessions. For Molly, these conversations were so useful – seeing other women navigate their own leadership journeys helped her recognise her own potential.
Practical tools for lasting change
What sets Aurora apart from other leadership programmes is its emphasis on practical application. The programme workbook became an essential tool in Molly's development process.
"I completed the workbook along the way which was really helpful, both for preparation before sessions but also reflecting afterwards," she notes. This combination of preparation and reflection ensures that insights from Aurora translate into real-world action.
The mentorship component proved equally valuable. "I would highly recommend finding a mentor because it was so helpful talking through what I'd learnt and any thoughts and feelings I had along the way," Molly advises. This one-on-one support helps participants process their learning and apply it to their specific career contexts.
From self-doubt to success
The true test of any development programme lies in its lasting impact. For Molly, the results were both internal and external. Most significantly, her enhanced self-belief translated directly into career advancement.
"Since I completed Aurora, I have been successful in getting a new role," she shares. "Aurora helped me feel that I did have the appropriate skills and knowledge to put myself forward."
This outcome illustrates Aurora's core value proposition: it doesn't just teach leadership skills – it helps participants recognise and leverage the capabilities they already have.
Institutional investment
The University of Exeter's investment in Molly's development through Aurora has resulted in:
- enhanced employee confidence and self-advocacy
- successful internal career progression
- retained talent in a competitive market
- a more empowered team member.
Advice for future Aurorans
For those considering Aurora, Molly's advice is clear: embrace the opportunity fully.
"Really make the most of the opportunity of participating in Aurora. It can be a bit daunting talking with new people, but everybody is in the same boat and is there to support and listen."
Aurora doesn't just develop leaders – it transforms careers and, ultimately, organisations.
For HE institutions looking to retain and advance their female talent, and for women seeking to unlock their leadership potential, Aurora offers a proven pathway to success.
Aurora is Advance HE's leadership development programme for women in higher education. Applications for the 2025-26 academic year are now open. Find out more.