After throwing himself into several internships during his time at university, Jake was able to form relationships with the contacts he would need to get his first step on the career ladder. Now, Jake is excelling in his career at Ralph Lauren and leading campaigns for millions across Europe.
“During secondary school, I was really interested in business and that got me into marketing. I felt like a university degree could excel me to a higher level, whilst still having the opportunities to enjoy myself, meeting new people and gaining new connections.
I remember going to the BCU Open Day and meeting all of the lecturers and some of the current students. I was instantly inspired by them all. I saw their motivation and the passion that the lecturers showed for the course really stood out for me. I knew from that moment that BCU was for me and that the lecturers were going to put all their efforts in to making their students the best that they could be, to get to where they want to be in their careers.
BCU were great in preparing me for the marketing industry after university. The tutors were always providing us with lots of work experience opportunities for us to get involved with, from in house marketing agencies to working with specific clients. I was able to take on a wide range of internships during my time at BCU, which gave me a feel for different industries, environments, skills and so much more.
The beauty of the marketing course is that ultimately, it gives you the opportunities to go into any area within the sector that you want to be in.
I’m now working as a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Intern at Ralph Lauren. Fashion is something that I've always been passionate about, and working for a global, premium brand has always been a dream of mine.
Working in CRM is so much fun. I get to communicate with others, come up with new and fresh ideas for content and create exciting email campaigns for millions of people across Europe. I’ve been in the role for just over a month, and I'm already being given so much responsibility. I’m really enjoying it and I can see myself wanting to progress as much as possible to get more experience behind me for my career.
In the future, I’d love to eventually work in management. I’ve already got some experience in management as I helped to manage all the Student Ambassadors at BCU. I’d love to eventually have my own team and work on my own projects.
My advice to other students is to take as many opportunities as you can. There will be chance to go on trips, learn about different brands, agencies and so much more. Take advantage of work placements that come your way and use Linkedin regularly to connect with people who may influence your career. Whether it's developing relationships with lecturers or students, it all helps. By the time you graduate, you'll have an abundance of contacts and experience.
For me, BCU means passion, drive and succeeding. If you're a BCU student, you will have the motivation to get where you want to be in life.”
