My first term working at Lancaster Management School as an Accountancy Careers Coach

Ahhh my first term has passed, and what an experience Michaelmas has been...

Having no background working directly in HE, I was apprehensive to start my new role. Culturally it would be a big change, I was leaving a management role at a global agency that I loved working for, it was a huge decision. I wasn't sure if I would fit in with the team, nor how long it would take for me to be up to speed and have the impact I knew the role needed, common worries I suppose when changing careers. Luckily, I knew Matthew Howard (Undergraduate Careers Manager) & Rory Daly (Head of Careers at LUMS) from our partnerships prior to my appointment at the University, I had an overwhelming feeling working with them and the careers team at LUMS was the right next step for me. I suppose when you know, you know.

I was catapulted into the busiest term at pace, and I would not have had it any other way. My first week consisted of presenting to the MBA cohort on all matters LinkedIn, introducing myself to the incredible Academic team here at the Accounting and Finance faculty, and also meeting the highly experienced Careers team across the University. The weeks that followed kept me VERY busy. I began meeting with students 121 from day one, luckily I was able to hit the ground running with my knowledge of the Accounting and Finance recruitment market, I was not complacent however, I knew I had a lot to learn in the run up to the festive holiday to ensure Lent term started productively. As expected, November and December turned into an exciting blur of System work, Meetings, 121's, In curriculum delivery, Event planning, Business Engagement work, and so much more. No two days are the same in this role and that plays to my strengths coming from a Sales / Consultancy background. (Lots of sugar was consumed, cake basically).

My main highlight in post over the past few months has been the recent launch of our new Accounting society, I am so proud of how quickly the society became affiliated and of the work they are already doing, I know they are going to go on to do incredible things and become one of the best societies in the UK over time. Thank you also to LUIFS for your support in the infancy of LUAS, it is noted and appreciated by all in LUMS careers. Another massive highlight was working alongside Stacey Noble and Matthew Howard delivering my first in curriculum teaching sessions, I couldn't be more thankful for the support, patience and guidance they have both shown to me, thank you.

Lent term has started with a bang, I have already delivered my first three careers sessions to all year groups across the Accounting cohort (In person, yay - thank you Wendy Beekes). Many of my students are receiving offers for Internships, Placements and Graduate roles (so many happy GIFs flying around on TEAMS), the ones that haven't yet, will, as they are working so so hard, the class of student at Lancaster is a pleasure to witness. The lighter nights are upon us, driving on to campus is a great start to the day, as is watching the sunset over the bay when driving home in the evening. I am learning something new every single day, and not just little things, blow my mind type stuff (Not hard you could argue for those that know me well).

I could NOT have achieved the small wins I have so far without the support I have received from everyone in LUMS Careers and AccFin department. Shout out to LaVerne Handfield for your daily support and out the box thinking (You are a future CEO). I would also like to extend massive thanks to all in Central Careers, the Engagement team, GYF team, and absolutely anyone and everyone who has helped me in my short time here to date. Starting a new role after riding the COVID wave for 2 years probably wasn't on paper a smart decision, but I am so glad I did it.

They say you don't know a role until you are at least a year in?! It's 2 years surely? Does Imposter Syndrome have an end date? Wish me luck for the steep learning curve I am about to embark on through Lent and Summer term.

I cannot wait :) THANK YOU to my brilliant students, I love working with you all.

P.s - If there is anyone out there thinking it could be time to take a risk in life - what are you waiting for?