My experience at university 

I graduated from The University of Manchester in July 2024 with a First-Class degree in English Literature and American Studies. I was also the winner of the Dennis Welland prize for Best Overall Performance on the American Studies Programme. One of the things I loved most about the course was its interdisciplinary nature. Studying a joint honours allowed me to explore ideas from different perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of culture, society and the world around me. The course challenged me to think critically, analyse complex information and communicate my ideas clearly- skills that I continue to use everyday in my career.

Alongside my studies, I worked as a Customer Services Assistant at the Armitage Sports Centre from the very first day of my Freshers’ Week in 2021. As a avid sports fan, it was the perfect role for me and provided valuable experience in customer service, teamwork and problem-solving in a fast-paced, dynamic sporting environment. Balancing work with my degree helped me develop strong organisational and time-management skills, while also giving me practical workplace experience before graduation.

As I approached the end of my degree, the University’s Careers Service provided valuable support with my transition into employment. I particularly appreciated their CV checker tool, which helped me refine my applications and present my experience effectively. The Careers Service website was also a great resource for exploring graduate opportunities. 

My current role and career aspirations

After finishing my degree, I joined The University of Manchester’s Future Leaders Graduate Scheme in September 2024, a competitive graduate development programme that provides recent graduates with experience across three different areas of the institution. My first placement was Business Change Coordinator in the Strategic Change Office, and I am currently undertaking my second placement as Student Marketing and Recruitment Coordinator within the Faculty of Humanities.

In my current role, I help plan and deliver events and activities that support prospective students in exploring their higher education options and gaining an insight into what it’s like to study at Manchester. One of the highlights of my role so far has been leading the Economics of Football event in partnership with the Bank of England. The event took place in March 2026 and welcomed more than 100 Year 10 pupils from schools across Greater Manchester to campus for a day of interactive workshops themed around the FIFA 2026 World Cup. Using football as a lens to explore economic concepts provided an engaging and accessible introduction to Economics for the Year 10s. It was incredibly rewarding to manage the event from conception through to delivery and to see the positive feedback and impact it had on all stakeholders.

Looking ahead, I would love to return to working in the world of sport, particularly women’s sport. Women’s football is a huge passion of mine, and I have enjoyed seeing the game’s continued growth both on and off the pitch. Working for a football club or organisation within the women’s game would be a dream job for me!

Tips or advice for offer holders

For anyone considering studying at Manchester, my biggest piece of advice would be to make the most of every opportunity available to you. Join societies, try new sports, volunteer, attend events and step outside of your comfort zone. I would also encourage students to explore everything Manchester has to offer. From its music, sport and culture to the beautiful surrounding countryside, it is an incredible city to live in as a young adult.

Finally, if you can, seek out work experience while you’re studying. Whether it’s a part-time job, summer internship, volunteering opportunity or placement, these experiences can help you develop valuable skills, build your confidence and stand out to future employers. You’ll gain practical knowledge, make professional connections and earn some money along the way. In hindsight, the work experience I gained during my time at university played a huge role in helping me secure a graduate job.

Written by Bliss Ross, a BA English Literature and American Studies graduate (2024). 

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