Today I had the great priveledge of giving the CIM's marketing award to the top student at University of Central Lancashire's Business School - Nick Malham.
We hope that gaining such an award helps set students apart, and makes it easier for them when it comes the world of work. For this particular student, Nick, this will be some time away, as he's now taking a year out to go travelling.
This isn't the first time I've met Nick, or given him a prize - he was on the winning team at The Pitch - CIM's student competition which was run in February.
Whenever I meet today's marketing students, I'm always impressed by their confidence and composure. They seem to know what they want to acheive, and more importantly how to take the first steps in getting there.
It may seem odd, but when I first graduated I didn't even know what marketing was - having spent 4 years doing an engineering degree. And I still don't know what I want to do when (if) I grow up.
I'd like to wish all the students who will graduate this year the best of luck. It's a competitive environment for jobs, and a rapidly changing world of work. And my advice?
- keep up to date with learning, in whatever field you find yourself or want to be
- find a job that stimulates you and rewards you - that way it won't feel like work
- don't worry about taking steps to the side instead of steps up - they will all lead to experience and make you a more rounded person
and my motto in life? You only regret the things you didn't do (so say "yes" to any opportunities that come your way)
Good luck!
