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"During my time with Grassroots I worked on three main projects: the redesign of course evaluation forms; reaching a higher quality standard of monitoring and evaluation; and qualitative research into how a mental health awareness course de-stigmatised mental health issues. I also helped with a number of other relevant projects such as creating a social media strategy for the release of a new suicide-awareness film.

I considered the project a safe space for myself as a recent graduate to practise and grow my professional skills. The organisation was very good at finding the balance between nurturing me as new talent and acknowledging my existing abilities, resulting in the most productive outcomes for both of us. As someone who doesn’t like to be micro managed,  I thrived within the supportive but autonomous space I was given, especially with the peer support and learning through the university."

"As with many people in my situation at the time, the question of whether I would be able to financially support myself during the course was a primary concern… I was able to work two days a week at another organisation, which over the three months was practicable for me. This meant that I could gain further experience in the voluntary sector. I would recommend these placements to anyone who can take them. As young professionals we get taught all the theory of making it in the workplace, but these placements give you what you need in practice, and for that I’m very grateful.

In terms of career pay off, the benefits of taking the course have outweighed the costs. Thanks to my experience and first-class qualification, I gained a full-time job in the third sector as soon as I left my placement. For someone like me, who wanted to follow a not-for-profit route for their career, this course was the perfect option. Having a safe space to develop skills is vital wherever you want to be, and between Grassroots and the university I felt able to make the transition from a student to a professional person."