Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your career journey to date?
I studied Psychology at the University of the West of Scotland, graduating in 2017. I really enjoyed my course (although I very nearly studied Fine Art/Painting instead). I had the opportunity to take part in the Erasmus study abroad programme, and so spent six months of my third year in Groningen, a student city in the Netherlands. I had an amazing time, met lots of interesting people from all over the world, and did lots and lots of cycling!
After graduating I considered studying for a Masters, but ended up securing a one year graduate internship at the Principal’s office at University of Scotland. I discovered how Universities are run behind the scenes, and had the opportunity to shadow colleagues within various areas of the University. I decided I wanted to continue working within the Higher Education sector. I began working at University of Strathclyde in January 2020 as the Innovation Administrator for Inspire.
When I’m not working, I enjoy trying out new restaurants with my friends, going to gigs or exhibitions, seeing films at the cinema, reading, trying out new recipes, occasionally (ha ha) going to the gym, and travelling to new countries when I get the chance.
What is your role at the University of Strathclyde and what are your main responsibilities?
My current role is the Communications Assistant for Strathclyde Inspire. My main responsibilities are posting on social media, sending out our monthly bulletin, updating our webpages, writing case studies and other content for our website, organising photography and videography shoots, organising our podcast recordings, and tracking and updating various data including registrations to Strathclyde Inspire. It’s a very varied role so I never get bored!
What are you currently excited about in your job?
I’m excited about our new marketing plan which we have recently implemented. It looks at a different general ‘theme’ each month for some of our content and events, which gives me the opportunity to focus on topics which I’m passionate about and interested in. This month we’ve had a focus on sustainability, looking at our companies which are eco-friendly or vegan. This involved writing a case study on ENOUGH – a Strathclyde spin-out company which produces a ‘mycoprotein’ called ABUNDA, which functions as a sustainable meat replacement. I was able to highlight some of the issues with traditional meat farming and reasons that people turn to plant-based diets – which is something I’m passionate about. And very fitting for the month of Veganuary! Next month we will focus on Diversity and Inclusion.
Why should University staff, students and alumni work with the team at Strathclyde Inspire?
The Strathclyde Inspire team is here to help and want to see you succeed. Everyone can benefit from learning skills in entrepreneurship – not just those with a business idea. If you’re unsure if it’s for you, come along and visit us in the Strathclyde Inspire Hub, located on level 6 of the Graham Hills building.
If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be?
Probably sriracha hot sauce – I love spicy food and get through a bottle at an alarming rate.
What’s a tv show or film you’ve watched recently that left an impact on you?
My favourite films of the last year or so are ‘The Worst Person in the World’ and ‘Aftersun’ – I saw both in the cinema twice and cried each time!