Catherine Nangle

Senior Communications Consultant, Shared Services Connected Ltd

Why I chose to attend Leeds Trinity and my best memories

I knew I wanted to leave London for a buzzing city in the north, so I jumped at the chance to go to a Leeds Trinity open day. The campus was green, the facilities cutting edge, and had everything you’d need (including an all-important bar on campus). It attracted me with its close-knit community, and strong links to one of the most exciting cities in the UK. I thought yep, this is me!

Something I remember that stands out in my first year, is that Leeds Trinity was granted university status and got it’s full name as ‘Leeds Trinity University’. That was really cool to be a part of. Quite a few of my other memories involve a bit too much beer, but I’ll say we did have some great snowball fights on the campus grounds! I’ll never forget the friends I’ve made for life there.

Valuable placements

My first placement was at a local magazine company and was a great opportunity to learn how a small editorial operation works and its advertising model. I also joined a digital publication called wow247.co.uk (sadly no longer in operation) in my second year. It was a great way to be involved in a busy journalism environment and use my writing skills in a professional setting for the first time. I stayed on long after university doing freelance articles for them too.

By far the most impactful placement was my time spent at the Financial Times in London. I joined the marketing team who focused on subscriptions both print and digital. It was my first opportunity to see and be part of a busy corporate office (including visits to the press floor, which was unreal!) and learn the inner workings of a marketing team’s strategy.

What I enjoyed most about the course

The placements really stood out to me, as without them I don’t think I’d be where I am today. In a job market that’s more competitive than ever, they’re a real advantage. Our tutors were also incredibly dynamic, and always committed to making sure we were pushing our ways of thinking and challenging ourselves.

Leaving university with new skills

I’d say my writing was a skill I developed the most. Being able to articulate well and explain your reasons, negotiating and influencing through the written word can serve you in so many ways, no matter what your chosen career is. I’d also say confidence, attending university does wonders for your self-esteem, and proving to yourself you can do anything no matter how challenging.

My career since graduating

I used to work for NatWest Bank in Marketing and Communications which I loved, and it led me to my next role as a Senior Communications Consultant for SSCL, who provide business-critical support services to the UK Government and the UK public sector. Our clients include UK government departments such as the Department of Work and Pensions, the Ministry of Defence, the Home Office, and other important services like the Metropolitan Police Service.

My favourite part of my job is the exposure to senior leaders up to our CEO and being able to support my team. By offering our internal communications expertise to support the business to inform and engage our staff, we make a real difference as a team to their success. Working in communications is amazing, as you always get a spot at the table and your opinion is critical.

My advice to prospective students

If you’ve decided university is for you, then Leeds Trinity University is a fantastic place to go.

Thanks to the hands-on support they offer at Leeds Trinity, I always felt I was fully encouraged to develop and succeed there. I’ve just finished a Foundation Degree in Public Relations, and I’d credit my university experience and the grit it taught me for my enjoyment of further learning. Maybe one day I'll be fortunate enough to come back as a postgraduate student!