Wycliffe Careers Fair – OWs share their time

Thank you to OWs Susie Jackson (C 2004 – 2009), Deborah Bryant Pearson (HE 2007 – 2010), Sam Dunne (C 2008 – 2010), Joe Dunne (2009 – 2014) and Aiden Coffey (P R 2007 – 2017) who took part in Wycliffe’s virtual careers fair. The extensive programme gave pupils the chance to explore over 40 different industries including; engineering, apprenticeships, surveying/real estate, archaeology, digital media, environmental science, languages, finance, HR, University abroad, logistics, nutrition, criminology, law, charity sector and the landscape sector to name a few.

In normal circumstances, finding time in busy schedules or travelling back to Wycliffe to help with an event can be a challenge. The OWs who joined to support the College for this event were on call from as far away as Mexico, where Susie Jackson is a freelance translator using her love of languages.

More locally based, Deborah would usually be travelling around the South West in her role with Colliers as Associate Director in the Valuation and Advisory Department running the Bristol team. She is also the current Chair of RICS Matrics Bristol & West which is an organisation for students undertaking studies which will lead to RICS qualification, as well as those who have recently qualified as Chartered Surveyors. They arrange (in usual times) networking events and CPD sessions for our members, but the organisation also tries to raise the profile of surveying to the next generation.

Deborah initially made contact with Caroline Hiorns (Careers Manager at Wycliffe) because of our post on LinkedIn and thought she might be able to assist ‘virtually’ this year.

Sam is a Senior Project Manager in the digital media industry managing the creation of websites and apps used by millions of people. He is currently working for Biglight but is moving to an exciting new role soon. He’s worked with some major brands in his time as a Project Manager including; Adidas, The North Face and Premier League. Good luck in the new role, Sam!

Joe Dunne works in the growing third sector for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. He spoke to pupils about what it means to work in the non-profit charity sector in the current climate and how charities and its workers have adapted to the pandemic and what the future of campaigning looks like.

Lastly, but by no means least, our most recent leaver, Aiden Coffey, is a graduate physiologist (human Factors) at Martin-Baker Aircraft Co Ltd. His role there focusses on the physiological human factors affecting fast jet aircrew, incorporating physiological considerations into the design process at every level – a role that marries engineering design with physiological expertise.

Pupils chose to listen to four talks across the afternoon and all sessions were recorded so that pupils can access a library of information at any time. What fascinating and varied talks, thank you for your time!