I’ve always had a deep passion for business, a passion stemming from various family members and an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit. It has always been my ambition to start my own business. The Business Management course at Ayrshire College seemed the logical ‘next-step’ to lay the groundwork for a career in business, enabling me to widen my skillset and entrepreneurial thinking.
What a journey it was… When I enrolled back in 2020, we were in the midst of a global pandemic; one that wreaked havoc on life as we knew. In such circumstances, the college delivered a student experience that was second to none. All the lecturers and teaching staff remained super approachable, and were there to support me at every turn. I had the chance, not only to develop my theoretical and soft skills, but also to gain practical experience in a local technology start-up, an experience that has shaped me profoundly. In terms of motivation, the Ayrshire College team has instilled in me a ‘can do attitude’… a quality I cherish and that characterises my approach to learning.
I heard about the ART project through the college grapevine, and was keen to be involved at the outset. As a regular tunnel user, I had first-hand awareness of its short fallings, and was inspired by the trust’s community-led aspirations. As a student I felt I could provide a perspective that complements the breadth of experience across the board, and support the turnaround of a community asset that was in dire straits!
Alongside the opportunity to develop key business skills and life-long friendships, the feeling of leaving a positive imprint in the local community has been unparalleled. A chance to inject a bit of positivity into people’s day is a pleasure I never take for granted.
I have started a Business Management degree at Glasgow Caledonian University, with direct entry into third year. I also lead a social innovation society on campus called Enactus GCU – where students draw on entrepreneurial thinking to co-create social projects that add value; or as we like to put it… change the world.
Since an early age, I have always envisaged that I will one day run my own successful business. This remains at the forefront of any career-related aspirations.
Alongside a place to put my existing skills to the test, the ART project offered a real platform to ‘learn by doing’ through various duties and tasks I’ve undertaken. I would also say I’ve learned an equal amount from being a ‘fly on the wall’. Being the youngest on the board, having the chance to listen to my very experienced fellow board members has been invaluable, and given me a fantastic kick-start for my career.
I would pass on three snippets of advice for anyone interested in business. These definitely worked for me!
If you want to help me achieve the vision of the ART project – find out what you can do: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/alloway-tunnel
