Politics & International Relations 2023 From Aberdeen to Championing Local Business
Your Time at Aberdeen
Why did you choose to study at Aberdeen? I chose to study in Aberdeen as I grew up here and love the city. Plenty culture and entertainment yet not too busy.
Why did you choose your particular course? I chose to study Politics & International Relations as I was interested in Modern Studies throughout school.
What did you most enjoy about your time at Aberdeen? Did you have any particularly memorable student experiences? I enjoyed joining the University Cheerleading Society as this gave me a chance to connect with others going through similar situations such as dissertations and exams and encouraged me to consistently step outside my comfort zone.
If you were involved in any clubs and societies as a student, what did you enjoy most about them and what benefit do you think they have for students? The Cheerleading society allowed me to switch off from university and gave me a chance to relieve stress through weekly exercise.
If talking to a group of prospective students, what advice would you give them to help them make the most of their time at the University of Aberdeen? I would advise, say yes to as much as possible! Join societies, go to the lectures, have coffee at the libraries. It is a short four years so get involved as much as possible.
Your Time After Aberdeen
What was your first job after graduating from Aberdeen? Business Services Executive with Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce which was an admin role assisting others with duties.
What is your current job? Relationship Manager with Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce which involves account managing 100+ local businesses and engaging with other local businesses to take on memberships with the Chamber.
Please briefly describe the journey from your first job after graduating to where you are now I joined the Aberdeen Chamber as a fresh graduate and joined in an admin role. I put in a lot of work to develop my confidence and build up my presence in the local admin business community, resulting in me beginning as a Relationship Executive. Due to incredible results and a positive attitude, I was promoted to Relationship Manager after five months.
Was your degree at Aberdeen essential for getting to where you are now? If so, in what way? My degree was essential as it taught me skills beyond my actual degree. I learnt time management, how to manage stressful situations, my confidence improved and I learnt how to work hard at something consistently and never giving up. The skills it taught me weren't just to do with my degree, but also about myself and my own development as an individual.
Have you been involved with the University since your graduation, e.g. guest speaker, ambassador or mentor? I have been involved as a guest speaker at the University, using my experience to present to Freshers and also those about to graduate.
One Top Tip
Please share your one top tip that you think is most important for our current students or recent graduates that will help them when starting out on their career paths. Get your voice heard! Post on LinkedIn, ask questions, learn from others and build up a presence as much as possible! Be what others may consider 'cringe' - this is where we get noticed and where the magic happens.
