Monika Gopal

Marketing graduate Monika dived into the world of business during university, completing work experience placements in Scotland and Dubai, between studying for her degree and volunteering as a PR Officer with Stirling Students’ Union’s Business Society. 

After graduation, she kicked off her career by securing a place on Mitchells and Butlers’ competitive Marketing Graduate Scheme in Birmingham. 

What was your journey since graduating and starting the Graduate Scheme? 

I was initially employed onto the Mitchells & Butlers Corporate Marketing Graduate Scheme. This one-year rotational programme enabled me to gain insight into different aspects of the organisation’s approach to marketing. These experiences, and my success of this scheme, helped me secure a permanent position with the company as Assistant Marketing Manager at Nicholson’s pubs, where I stayed for just under two years before moving across to the All Bar One brand.

In what way did your experiences at Stirling shape your career to date (academic studies, internships, study abroad, part-time work, volunteering)?

I was heavily involved with clubs and societies during my time at Stirling, with Women’s Lacrosse and the Business Club. Additionally, I took advantage of multiple internship opportunities which saw me working at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Scottish Youth Hostels Association (SYHA), Scottish Institute for Enterprise and in the summer of my penultimate year I worked for OPITO International in Dubai, which was part of the Saltire Scholarship Programme. 

My internships have been crucial in developing skills such as my research, organisation and ability to work under pressure. Crucially, taking the initiative to pursue these opportunities made me stand out to employers and provided me with an impressive range of work experience relevant to my degree.

What advice would you give to current students in terms of preparing for your first job after graduation?

I would advise students looking to prepare for a post-graduation career to become involved in an extensive range of both academic and recreational activities. Being an active member of clubs and societies you are passionate about is not only enjoyable, it can also help you develop key skills outside of your studies. 

Engaging with internship and fundraising opportunities is also a fantastic way to enrich your university experience and show employers that you are willing to put yourself out of your comfort zone and have a desire for self-development that goes beyond just your course. A wide variety of pursuits will result in a more beneficial and enjoyable university experience and will do more to impress employers.