Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, where you grew up and your career journey to date?
I was born and raised in Glasgow, and although I enjoyed some time away for various trips, this has always been my home base. I can confidently say that I love this city and no matter how far I travel, it's always great to come back to. I finished a Chemistry degree at the University of Glasgow in 2020 and entered the workforce just before lockdown started. My first job outside of student life was a sales rep for a telecommunications company, working fully remotely, and once things started to open up again, I applied for a maternity-cover admin role within the Innovation & Industry Engagement Directorate. After this role came to an end, I applied to be the Strathclyde Inspire Administrator and was successful!
What is your role at the University of Strathclyde and what are your main responsibilities?
My current role within Inspire involves supporting the Head of Entreprenuership Strategy and the Inspire Team Leads. I provide a wide range of administrative duties that include; helping set up key meetings for Inspire functions, managing the budget, booking travel and accommodation, and providing a helping hand to set up various events. I’m also one of the friendly faces you’ll see at the front desk of the Inspire Hub (Graham Hills Level 6), greeting guests and welcoming people in.
What's your favourite thing about your role/working with Strathclyde Inspire?
Currently, the part of my role I enjoy the most is getting to see how we interact and support entrepreneurs to realise the potential of their business ideas. As I graduated 3 years ago, this was a side of the University that I had no inclination existed as a student. Although I didn’t study at Strathclyde, I would have loved to have been involved in this programme as an undergraduate.
Working here has really got me feeling, no pun intended… inspired! Seeing how passionate my colleagues are at trying to get the best out of each client has been a really positive experience and helps to keep me motivated.
Why should University staff, students and alumni work with the team at Strathclyde Inspire?
From my short time within the team, I believe they are more ‘people-oriented’ than any other group of individuals I have worked with. Staff, students and alumni are always put first, which is such a positive environment to collaborate in.
What’s your favourite food/type of cuisine?
Italian food is always a winner for me. I’ve been to multiple regions in Italy and there is a simplicity to the cuisine that I just adore. There is just such a love for simple but high quality ingredients; I don’t really know where else you can order tomatos, garlic and basil and walk away feeling like you’ve just ate the greatest sauce known to man.
What’s your favourite way to spend a day off?
After lockdown, I realised how important it is to spend time with friends and family! Currently, when I have a day off, I spend it socialising with family or close friends.
