Student - Bryce

History (MA Hons)

Why did you apply to Insights?

I applied because I saw an email saying I was eligible, had a read through of what Insights was all about and it really piqued my interest. I saw an unmissable opportunity in the programme and knew it would be a brilliant opportunity to build my professional confidence and really put myself out there into the world of work.

What advice would you give to future participants?

Explain your Insights experience. 

During the Immersion Week in June I visited different alumni at their workplaces across London, in very different employment sectors. These were:

• Ben, who is a Customer Care Lead at British Airways (BA). We visited him at Heathrow airport and we got a glimpse into what BA represents as a company and Ben’s thoughts on his role
• Josh, who is a Member of Parliament (MP). We had a whole tour of the UK parliament and gained invaluable insight into the world of politics. Josh talked us through his path into the political sphere and what he found most useful in his career development
• Alex, Chief Operating Officer and partner at Cinven.  We got a great introduction into an industry and position I knew almost nothing about. It was really fascinating to hear about the world of private equity, and with Alex being a fellow historian it proved to me that your degree does not define you.
• Dr. Zoe, Chief Digital Information Officer working within the NHS. Zoe, also being a joint honours historian gave us some really good knowledge on her sector, and how fulfilling public sector roles can be. It seemed like an excellent environment to work in.
• Another alumnus who is a senior civil servant provided a great insight into the world of civil service. He spoke of the highs and lows of his career and was very honest about what to expect from a role like his. I had a very interesting conversation about the civil service’s role in administrating the UK in relation to domestic and geopolitical politics and policy.
• Sam & Dasha work at Cowry Consulting as behavioural architect managers. They gave me a superb understanding of what consultancy is and how it aids businesses in advertising, efficiency, and operations in general. Sam seemed to have a real passion for his career and has inspired me to consider consultancy as a possible route.

What did you learn?

I learned that nothing in my career path will come for free. It’s all about the miles you put in and the connections you make. It was a great opportunity to develop my professional identity and I learned that it’s never really too late to get involved in another sector if you put the effort in. However, I also learned I must get started on my path properly now to get ahead of others, especially in highly competitive fields.

How have you benefited from the experience?

I met people I would have never of had the opportunity to meet otherwise, and my professional confidence has grown significantly.

How will this experience influence you and/or your choices in the future?

It has influenced my attitude towards careers and how I see myself within that realm. I am much more confident now, and my choices and path will outline this. I will make a conscious effort to branch out more and explore more opportunities.