Name: Clarissa Norwak

University from which you've graduated:

University of Nottingham

Degree subject:

BA Politics and International Relations with year abroad in Hong Kong

MA Global citizenship, Identities and Human Rights

Which societies/sports clubs were you a member of:

Politics Society, Feminist Society & English Language Peer Tutoring Society at University of Hong Kong

Home town:

Newark, UK

Host institution:

King’s College London

Why did you apply to the graduate trainee scheme?

A love and enthusiasm for fundraising combined with a passion for education and social mobility. The CASE graduate scheme offers a unique insight into an emerging and exciting sector that I soon realised has excellent opportunities for career progression.

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

I hope to gain a thorough understanding in the depth and breadth of the development office and its fundraising activity at King’s. This includes securing gifts for priority campaigns for causes I am passionate about and building strong relationships with donors whilst also gaining exposure to the wider activities of the office including trusts and foundations, community and events, alumni relations, direct marketing and stewardship.

What are you career ambitions?

My work experience throughout university involved fundraising and marketing for local charities mainly focused on women and girl’s rights, including the Rosie May Foundation and Nottingham’s largest Women’s Aid domestic abuse charity. This included the responsibilities of organising community events, raising awareness of the charity’s work and raising funds for specific campaigns including charity fun runs and a month long ‘Bake a Difference’ campaign involving corporate partnerships. Building on this experience and gaining an all round experience of higher level giving this year at King’s, I hope by the end of the year to decide where I want to specialise within the broad remit of fundraising. I hope to further progress in a fundraising position either in higher education or the charity sector, with the ambition to progress into a senior level role in the future.

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

Travelling, indulging in new cultures, exploring new cities, fashion, baking, women’s rights and feminism.

Proudest moment?

Receiving the British Council Hong Kong Scholarship of Excellence to complete my studies abroad and receiving a First-Class Honours in my undergraduate degree.

LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarissa-norwak-101841109/