Alumna Jodie Rogers graduated from the University with a degree in Events Management in 2016. In this week’s blog, she tells us more about her travels after graduating and what she has been doing since returning home…
“I am currently Sales and Marketing Manager at a national catering company, having graduated from Chester Business School with an upper second class honours degree in Events Management. However, before undertaking this full time role, I had the desire to travel South East Asia and garner a greater understanding of the differences in culture, society and up-bringing that exist around the world.
“I decided to incorporate my travel plans with the opportunity of further learning, and signed up to Love TEFL – an accredited online teaching course which allowed me to teach English abroad to primary school students. I spent seven weeks at a school in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, teaching and helping students from Pre-School through to Year Six with their English reading and writing skills.
“As I was already in Asia, after seven weeks at the school, I took the opportunity to explore neighbouring countries and went visited Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos.
“I really enjoy exploring new locations and learning about new cultures. On route, we stopped at some of the most spectacular locations, including Angkor Wat in Cambodia – the largest religious monument in the world. Another recommendation would be to take a cruise tour around Ha Long Bay, the views were incredible (as you can see in my photos).
“Although the travelling around was a great experience, I firmly believe that you should work or engage with the local communities to fully experience the culture. Many of my friends undertook teaching at Camp Thailand and Camp America, where they also had equally fulfilling experiences.
“Nearing the end of my travels, I was still unsure about my future career path, but I flew home keen to explore the possible opportunities. With post-holiday blues, I sat down and began applying for jobs relevant to my education and studies in Chester. While searching for a job that would be suitable for me, I took the opportunity of working at the West Mid Showground where I previously completed my six-week work experience placement at University. I joined on a temporary basis to assist with the planning and delivery of the Shropshire County Show for another year.
“From there, I stumbled across another opportunity and had an interview with a mobile catering company for a position as their Sales and Marketing Manager. I was successful in this interview and soon began working. The role has allowed me to visit many different events across the country, gaining considerable amounts of experience and connections within the events industry. This dynamic is perfect for me as it allows me the chance to meet new people and visit new places, gaining experience in an area that I thoroughly enjoy.
“The skills that I gained from my undergraduate course have been particularly useful in providing me with the necessary theory which I can apply to my practical experience and continue to be successful in my current role.”
If you are interested in being a guest blogger and would like to showcase your achievements since graduating, why not get in touch? Email alumni@chester.ac.uk or drop us a message on social media.
