Here at JAM we believe that everyone deserves a chance, and some of our very best employees have been students straight from university, that have little experience, but lots of get-go. This month, we’re handing over the mic to our two placement students, Kristen and Rosalind, to find out why it’s so important to give young professionals a chance…
Kristen, 21, Northumbria University –
When it came to finding a placement, it was anything but an easy experience, and I quickly came to realise that many places simply do not have the time for students.
On the search for my final year placement, I was hit with the same automated reply ‘sorry we don’t take on students’ several times. It was so disappointing reading those responses, because I really wanted to work hard for these companies, but I wasn’t even given a chance.
After searching for some time, JAM Prints & Marketing got back to me and were happy to get me in. Being only a small team, I’ve had the chance to work with real clients and gain practice in multiple areas, something not many internships will offer.
My placement at JAM has allowed me to work one-on-one and get a real feel for what it would be like to work in the marketing industry. And most importantly, I haven’t just been assigned as the tea and coffee maker!
It’s been great getting the chance to experience life as a Jammy Dodger and they couldn’t have welcomed me to the team better. Thank you JAM!
Rosalind, 20, Northumbria University –
Getting your foot into the marketing world can be difficult, especially as so many ‘entry-level’ jobs these days require one or more years of experience, which is nearly impossible to achieve when you are studying full time for a degree. However, getting real work-experience is invaluable.
From starting at the company in October, I had little to no experience in marketing and it was all completely new to me, but I knew it was something I wanted to pursue. Fast-forward to now, as I graduate from university, I am proud to say that I have the skillset and portfolio I need to be able to enter the job market with confidence.
This wouldn’t have been possible without JAM, as they have mentored me over the last eight months and trusted me with important, hands-on tasks that have been indispensable in building my confidence. Already, so many more doors have opened up for me, which I would have never been able to consider without my work experience.
I have loved every second working at JAM, and I am thankful I got the opportunity to discover my potential and passion for marketing!
