Graduate Profiles

Why did you choose to study French and History?

I chose to study French and History at The University of Sheffield as I wasn’t sure what career path I wanted to go down at the time and I wanted to study subjects that I enjoyed at A Level. I was advised by a family friend, who set up a successful PR agency in London, to study an academic subject that you enjoy at a good University, rather than specialising too early. It was good advice – I developed my communication, analytical and French language skills and honed my writing and presentation skills – all of which have set me up for my current role as an Associate Director.

What did you think about the course and the city?

I loved taking French and History at Sheffield. I was able to study a fascinating and diverse range of topics - from Mao’s China and Hitler’s Germany to French philosophy, film, art and literature. I particularly enjoyed researching and writing my dissertation. The standard of teaching and the support you receive is excellent and Sheffield is a fantastic city to study in.

Where did you go on your year abroad?

I spent a year studying at the Universite de Saint Denis on Reunion Island (a French-speaking island in the Indian Ocean). This was a fantastic experience - I met some amazing people and took advantage of everything the island had to offer - from music festivals in the mountains to pristine beaches - whilst brushing up on my French language skills. I was lucky enough to live in Paris and Moliets working as an Au Pair during the summer, before returning to Sheffield for my final year.

What have you done since Uni?

My French language skills got me my first job after University - I worked as an Events Coordinator, organising technology events and implementing marketing campaigns in France, Spain and Portugal. From there, I moved into the environmental marketplace, developing and implementing marketing and PR campaigns for a number of clients. In my spare time, I volunteered for an international development charity, as their Global Outreach and Communications Manager. I was responsible for developing the charity’s marketing and communications strategy, which included outreach programmes for schools and Universities, social media, events and website design and development.

In 2010, I was one of four founding members who set up a new company, E2B Group, which specialises in providing a range of products and services for the environmental sector and sustainable business professionals. The company has gone from strength to strength and I now head up two of our business divisions – a news and networking site and a marketing services agency. Last year I also completed my professional diploma with the Chartered Institute of Marketing.