Sam Yates BSc Transport and Business Management Year of Graduation: 2015 Job title: Graduate Scheme Employer:

Your background:

I studied three A Levels in Politics, Business Studies and Food Technology in Southwell, Nottinghamshire before starting at Loughborough in 2011. I have had a keen interest in transport from an early age, which led me to study Transport and Business Management at Loughborough University.

Where are you now?

I am currently on the Kent County Council Graduate Scheme based in the Highways, Transportation and Waste Department. This graduate scheme is extremely well structured and allows you to complete three placements within the council. I am currently assessing minor and major planning applications for large housing and retail sites in the , Tunbridge Wells and and Malling districts.

How did you get there?

The Transport and Business Management degree at Loughborough University includes a one-year placement opportunity after completion of year two. After applying for a variety of transport related placements, I was successful in joining Leicestershire County Council on their one-year industrial placement scheme. During my placement, I gained first-hand experience of working in local government in a fast-paced role dealing with housing developers, contractors, consultants, residents and county councillors.

Where are you going?

I am currently on the Kent County Council Graduate Scheme gaining experience in a number of teams across the Highways Transportation and Waste Department. I am hoping to be in a Team Manager position in the next five years.

What if anything would you have done differently during your time at Loughborough University to help you prepare better for your career/life upon graduation?

I would have utilised the Careers and Employability Centre more as they can help with interview techniques as well as training in presentation skills and report writing, which are needed in working life.

What advice would you give to a student studying your subject at university now?

I would urge any student studying Transport and Business Management to complete a one-year placement in industry, which the course allows. This placement year gave me valuable experience of

real working life and was instrumental in me getting on a graduate scheme after graduation. I would advise current students to polish their CVs and apply for schemes as early as possible.