In 2023 I secured one of the internships organised by Leeds Trinity University’s Careers and Placements team, to take place in their Alumni Office based at the Horsforth campus. I have been a Student Ambassador during my time studying at the University which gave me experience in events, administration tasks, being front of house and promoting the University, but this internship offered a deeper insight and a hands-on chance to learn and understand more about the procedural side of things. 

Throughout my internship I witnessed the value placed on building and maintaining relationships with former Leeds Trinity University students, as well as the thought, preparation and time that goes into doing so. It wasn’t just a case of bringing alumni back to campus to give a talk or gather a story, so much work was put into ensuring that it was a two-way relationship and they felt valued and recognised by the University. Sometimes it could be a small gift, an email of thanks, a handwritten postcard or a phone call as a show of appreciation for their time. 

I was a part of the staff team who went up against the Women’s Football Club in the annual 11-a-side Mick Marshall trophy match – in memory of a former captain’s late father. This match has been taking place since 2015, organised between alumna Katie Marshall and the Alumni Office led by Brett Arnall, and over the years has raised nearly £2,500 for Macmillan. This is a unique match that involves students, staff and alumni and is a good example of how the Leeds Trinity community comes together for the greater good. 

A few days after the match I co-hosted a table, sponsored by the Alumni Office, at the Students’ Union Awards Dinner and was required to look after VIP guests. The table comprised of alumni who organise for sports teams to return to the Horsforth campus to compete in alumni versus student annual sports fixtures, as well as former staff who continue to support the University. We were also joined on our table by Leeds Trinity Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohammed Arif, who had a chance to present an award and network with some of our highly engaged alumni.  

The internship also gave opportunities in undertaking marketing projects, writing up stories and engaging alumni profiles, co-managing events including a Professorial Lecture and organising and filming a joint video between the Alumni office and Careers and Placements Team. My final intern shift was very poignant as I supported last year’s intern, Eilidh Masson-Walker, in hosting a Professorial Lecture. She was in the same position as me last year and is now the Events Coordinator for the University. This is testament to how the internship scheme works. 

Overall, the internship was a great opportunity for me to gain professional insight that adds to my university experience and further supports my employability. 

Asim Mahmood is a Sports Rehabilitation and Therapy student at Leeds Trinity University.  

For more information about the the course Asim studied, visit the website.