What was your dream career when you were younger?

A pilot. In fact, when I changed career I thought long and hard about actually making this a reality, but decided that as a career it wouldn’t give me the type of lifestyle I wanted.

What subjects did you study at school?

English, Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Modern Studies

Who or what has been your biggest inspiration?

There are two short books that really changed my outlook on work that I wish I’d read when I was in school. Check out: The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferris and #AskGaryVee by Gary Vaynerchuk.

How have the subjects you studied at school helped you in your career?

Studying maths and the sciences has been extremely useful. My job isn’t necessarily scientific per say, but the way we approach problems is exactly the same: hypothesise something, test it, analyse the data and draw conclusions. Additionally, regardless of what your career is, if you decide to start your own business down the line you will need maths to help you calculate the viability of your idea and deal with the accounting!

Please briefly describe your STEM journey since leaving school.

My journey was a bit unconventional. In school I’d prepared to study Dentistry, went to university to study Building Surveying and left as a Quantity Surveyor, which I worked as for 4.5 years on some of the biggest and most iconic projects in London. However, quantity surveying was never something I was passionate about and I just didn’t like it. I finally ended up leaving to start my own ecommerce business and in this I discovered my passion for digital marketing. I’d self-taught myself enough sales and marketing skills, that combined with the transferable skills from my STEM studies and previous experience, allowed me to completely change my career and I absolutely love it!

What skills do you utilise most in your career? 

Problem solving, communication and analytical skills are core to digital marketing. A huge requirement is being able to adapt to change and work smarter with the latest technology. You may also have to be creative, but it depends on your role and the size of the company.

What advice would you give to any young people considering a STEM career? 

Get as much varied work experience as possible, over the summer if you have to (you may get paid). You’ll learn some industry specific practical skills future employers look for, build up your CV experience and most importantly: find out if you actually like doing it – you’ll spend most your life at work!