Choosing my Destination

I wanted to do something with Maths but something that would be practical and could make an impact. I went through the big printed prospectus of the Universities and found Economics. I don't remember speaking to members of staff before the choice but my maths teachers (Mrs McLaughlan and Dr Walker) afterwards thought it was a good choice. 

Extra Curricular & Work Experience

In school I did Young Enterprise and a bunch of stuff with the music department. Young Enterprise was a great way to introduce project management in fifth and sixth year. It helped to develop my confidence to approach people to discuss or sell a product or idea. It also helped me to understand how different team members will be driven to participate in the project.

I also worked part time in a cafe in town. 

Skills I've developed

I have quite a mathsy brain, so have spent a lot of time developing analytical skills. However, analytical skills are of no use if you can not communicate the findings of your analysis and what it means for your audience. These communication skills can be more difficult to develop for someone who is more comfortable with numbers and definite answers, however taking the time to invest in these skills has significant long term benefits. People now listen to my analysis. 

My Advice

Grow your hair long. You'll only have it for a few more years.

Keep your options open. 

The jobs that you do are likely to be different to what you think you will do at school. They might even be more fun. So don't pigeon hole yourself at young age and don't worry if the path you end up on is different from where you thought you would go. It's your path.