July 23, 2024, by Jackie Thompson
From university to a career in communications – it’s not been a straightforward journey
Lilly Koranteng, theology and religious studies graduate
Hello, my name is Lilly Koranteng and I am 24 years old. I currently work as a communications and engagement officer at Milton Keynes University Hospital. I studied at the University of Nottingham between 2018 – 2021 specialising in theology and religious studies. Initially, I didn’t know what I wanted to do, I would say my career journey has not been quite linear or straightforward and my degree was very broad.
An early interest in law
During my penultimate year, I decided I wanted to pursue a career in law so I sought advice from the university’s Careers team and my university friends who also wanted to pursue law. They advised me to apply for summer vacation schemes and induction days at law firms.
I was able to attend a few law firms but when it came to the application process for the vacation schemes I struggled. I’m not sure whether it was the terminology or my lack of understanding of law but I didn’t get really far. It felt like I was just going for it because a lot of students were doing law but the passion and drive started to fade away and I realised it just wasn’t for me.
Taking time out
After university, I took a gap year and moved to Ghana for a year and worked in a staffing and technology start-up company as an executive assistant. Although it wasn’t directly communications, I would say that it helped direct me into the role I’m in now. I was involved with creating the company’s internal and external newsletters. I also worked with the social media team to build our media presence online, thinking about different ways and strategies to increase our following and awareness.
Taking a gap year abroad was a big step but everything truly worked out in my favour.
My role in communications
My current role as a communications officer has been an amazing experience so far. It’s given me exposure to the healthcare sector and how busy it can be with various projects happening at the same time. My role requires taking the lead on projects and tasks which I really enjoy. I get to share my ideas and develop my learning and experience further by taking on courses. It allows me to steer and shape my career path depending on my goals and objectives. The recruitment process was very seamless, I filled out my online application and was called for an interview. Luckily it was a one-stage interview process, so it wasn’t so hectic.
In a nutshell, my role revolves around everything that goes on in the organisation and hospital and being able to communicate clearly to our internal staff, the wider public and the media. In my role, I am the first point of contact within the team, managing the Communications team inbox, and managing both internal and external correspondence.
Alongside my colleagues, I am also responsible for developing and delivering communications and engagement initiatives to inform and engage both internally and externally. This involves producing engaging digital and print content and developing and maintaining the Trust’s website, intranet, CEO weekly newsletter, and external newsletter. As part of my role, I also support and organise Trust events, from awareness days to staff engagement, reward, and recognition events such as our Staff Awards.
Development opportunities
There is a wide scope for development opportunities in the hospital and in my team ranging from various apprenticeships to a master’s degree in your chosen field. Milton Keynes University Hospital can also support short-term courses where you receive accreditation, the encouragement to shadow teams and attend networking events.
How the Careers team supported me
The Careers team supported me so much during university, I booked appointments to discuss my career options and have an honest chat about my interests. They were really helpful in setting key objectives and making sure I work on them whether that be having a follow-up appointment or a drop-in session.
The Careers team exposed me to many different industries, sectors and roles and supported whatever choice and decision I made and helped me to plan and move forward. I always came out feeling really positive, especially in my penultimate year when I felt the pressure of coming to terms with university nearly being over. They supported me in my work experience applications and interviews. They have been nothing but fantastic and I would really urge and encourage all students to utilise them.
My advice if you’re looking for a graduate role
I would advise you to:
*speak to the Careers Team to understand your strengths and interests, and discuss possible career paths
*brainstorm ideas and research industries and sectors
*have a mentor to guide and support you
*gain as much work experience as you can whether that’s online or in person or completing educational courses. It really helps you stand out and shows your passion
*to never give up, you will face many rejections but that is all part of the greater journey you have ahead. The rejections shape you to keep pushing and trying, your journey may not be as linear as you would like it but it really does work out in the end so just keep trusting the process.
If you’re not sure what you will do in the future, check our choosing your career pages and book an appointment with an adviser.
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