What degree did you study?
MA Hons History at Glasgow University.

Did university prepare you for your career?

The subject of History was not actually relevant in securing my current job. However my employers did recognise the skills I gained from the degree (especially as one my bosses also had a degree in History), and the level of maturity I possessed because of it which helped me in securing the position.The most important skills I gained at university were time management, using your own initiative, communication with a variety of different people, the ability to present arguments and support them with evidence, and a much greater level of confidence.

What were your aspirations when leaving University?
My career ambitions are to be in a job that provides me with a sense of security, challenges me and ultimately makes me happy. I think that because so much of our lives are spent in the workplace it should not make you miserable or bored. I've always wanted to be successful in whatever I do.

What salary expectations did you have?
18,000- 20,000 as that is what a lot of the graduate schemes offer. However in reality I realise that this is not always the case.

Were you interested in staying in Scotland?
Yes, although I was keen travel wherever the right career opportunity arose.

Are you keen to return to Scotland?
Yes I would like to, and with the company I am in there may be an opportunity to move up to Edinburgh in the future. 

What types of jobs did you apply for?
When I first started job hunting I applied for publishing jobs and used websites such as Prospects and the Guardian, bought national newspapers on the days when they advertised the job sectors I sought, sent my CV to lots of local and national companies, and joined local job agencies. I would look at the internet every other day and joined as many "jobs by email" lists as possible. I would also check the newspapers and agencies on a weekly basis.

How did you hear of GfG?
Through the careers services at university.

How did GfG help and support you? 
GfG helped me to get face to face with growth companies that I wanted to work with and helped me to focus on what I wanted to do. 

What were the first couple of months like when you started working?
My first day at the company was very nerve racking. Although it was a good role to start in as I soon knew everyone's name and got to know people very quickly. Everyone made me feel extremely welcome on my first day and made it very easy to ask for help or guidance when I needed it.

Was joining the company what you expected?
I never though I would end up in the financial services after studying a history degree. However through my transferable skills joining the company has allowed me to become fully involved in the dynamics of the company.

What are your career aspirations?
Now that I have begun a career in financial services I can definitely see myself in it long-term. I have started training for my professional qualifications which will give me lots of options once completed.

What words of advice would you offer to graduates looking for start their career?
I would recommend sending out as many CVs as possible, joining lots of internet mailing lists for job updates, and reading the national and trade papers. Go for any job remotely connected to what you want to do, even if they ask for something you haven't got; if you get an interview then you can demonstrate your abilities to learn. It helped me to have a standard covering letter that I could change slightly to show a knowledge of the company, which can be gained by a quick look at their website. It can be really depressing getting rejection letters or more often no letter at all, but if you politely ask "why" you weren't suitable then some people are willing to give you useful feedback.Keep at it. It's a long process looking for a first job and it can be disheartening. You will find your calling eventually, just keep trying!

How could we improve our service to Graduates?
I was very impressed by the service GfG offer to graduates and would recommend them to anyone looking for career support.