Name: Jennifer Preston

University from which you've graduated:

University of Birmingham

Degree subject:

BA English

Which societies/sports clubs were you a member of:

Committee Member/ Recruitment manager of University of Birmingham TEDx, University of Birmingham Kickboxing Society, Headucate.

Home town:

Reading, UK

Host institution:

University of Surrey

Why did you apply to the graduate trainee scheme?

When I was looking for graduate schemes I was very conscious that I wanted a job with a positive social impact of my work. For all intensive purposes I didn't want to ‘sell my soul' to get lost in a large corporation. I had previously worked within the charity sector so started looking for something along those lines. Within this search I found the CASE programme which enables me to gain skills and personal development within a socially conscious environment.

What are you hoping to achieve from your year on the scheme?

When I was looking for graduate schemes I was very conscious that I wanted a job with a positive social impact of my work. For all intensive purposes I didn't want to ‘sell my soul' to get lost in a large corporation. I had previously worked within the charity sector so started looking for something along those lines. Within this search I found the CASE programme which enables me to gain skills and personal development within a socially conscious environment.

What are you career ambitions?

In the past I have worked with The Fulbright Commission, The Sutton Trust, The Social Mobility Foundation, and Changes UK. All of this experience has combined to create a belief in social mobility, education and the power of philanthropy. My ambition is to work within a progressive institution which promotes social mobility through education in either a charity, outreach or widening participation capability. Looking long term, hopefully in a director or CEO role looking longer term.

What are you hobbies/activities outside of study/work?

Outside of work I take any opportunity to travel, continue to study kickboxing and maintain an academic interest in Children's Literature and genre theory.

Proudest moment?

Throughout university I worked as a gymnastics coach. There was one particular child who was particularly difficult and often had loud temper tantrums. One day her mother took me aside and thanked me for working with her and developing a relationship which meant her child trusted me. It wasn't a big accomplishment and I doubt that child will remember me in ten years, but I was so proud that my extra understanding had been noticed and appreciated by a parent.