I considered various degrees and career options when I was at school, which all focused on wanting to help people. I became interested in politics during my A level studies, but felt more interested in the social side of politics. I discovered the option of studying Social Policy whilst scrolling through UCAS and decided the course was perfect for me. 

I was able to study a variety of topics, including housing, health, criminology and migration. The mixture of topics provided me with a rich understanding of societal issues and policies, which I have found useful in my career.I was lucky enough to be able to accept a placement with Birmingham City Council, which paved the way for my local authority career, through adding to my experience which secured me my summer internship, my first role after graduation  and my first managerial role. 

Did you participate in extra-curricular activities, if so how have these helped you in your current career?

In my second year of university, I had the opportunity to join Birmingham University Officer Training Corps. I was able to complete a reserve officer training module which focused on developing my leadership skills through weekly training nights and weekend adventures. This training developed my organisational and leadership skills, which have been integral in my career to date.

Describe your current role and organisation

I am the Homeless Service Manager (Development) in the Housing Options department. My role focuses on overseeing the effective development of the housing options service, enabling it to meet the needs of local and national policy, as well as the community it serves.

Tell us about your career journey from Birmingham student to where you are today

During my second year of study, I was lucky enough to complete a placement in the Environmental Health team at Birmingham City Council. This made me particularly keen to start a career in local government, and promoted me to apply for my summer internship at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council. I was able to get some fantastic experience from these two roles, prior to graduating from the University of Birmingham in the next year. Following graduation, I took a slight  change in direction and accepted a role in a Housing Options team within another local authority. I focused on frontline service delivery for just over two years, supporting people who were homeless or at risk of homelessness. I moved to my current role as a Homeless Service Manager in September 2019, wishing to move into a more strategic role to make larger scale changes. I have found my career so far to be rewarding, allowing me to support local communities. I hope to continue providing this vital support to the community in the future.

What one word would you use to describe the University of Birmingham? 

Inspiring