Placement opportunity leads to dream career for Harriet

Harriet Cooke, 21, from Ironbridge in Shropshire, was praised by her lecturers for her work ethic and commitment to her degree in BA Business Management. Her hard work paid off with a first class award and a full-time position in her chosen career following a successful work placement during her time at University Centre Shrewsbury (UCS).

Harriet said: “I still don’t believe that I came out of university with a first class degree, I honestly couldn’t have been happier when I received the result. I couldn’t have done it without the support from the university lecturers at UCS and my current employer, I am so grateful for the support I had.”    

Harriet chose to study at UCS for its locality and “the intimacy of its learning environment”.   

She added: “I chose to study Business Management due to my profound love and interest in the subject area. I was drawn in by the range of topics I would be learning throughout the three years, ranging from marketing strategies to human resources. The wide-ranging content ensured thar I obtained a well-rounded understanding of business operations. This comprehensive knowledge, I believe, has provided me with an excellent foundation for a successful career in business.    

“I truly believe that UCS is committed to providing its students with a supportive leaning environment, which has been valuable in my academic growth and success.”    

During her second year Harriet took part in a five-week placement with a Human Resources consultancy firm who offered her part-time employment during her final year. Harriet said being able to manage her time effectively was challenging but paid dividends for her future plans as it “inspired me to push harder in my final year as I had realised what I really wanted to do with my future career”.    

Harriet now plans to take part in further study alongside her new role.    

She said: “Gaining a first-class degree was not just about achieving academic prowess, it was the key that unlocked the door to my present job role. I just want to say a huge thank you to my lecturers as UCS, I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without them. Their continued support has enabled me to complete my degree with a much higher grade than I had ever anticipated.”  

Trina Roberts, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Management, said: “Harriet is a shining example of what can be achieved if you fully embrace not only your studies but also make the most of the various opportunities available to students such as gaining valuable work place skills via work placement, authentic assessments and modules directly linked to applying theory and skills to the world of work.    

“Congratulations on your new post and all your hard work Harriet, your work ethic and passion for learning have earned you a well-deserved first-class degree and a full-time role in an area you love!”