My name is Toby Berry, a first, going into second year, Economics and Politics Student at the University of Exeter. I‘m currently on a voluntary work placement at Prosper Protect Limited, based in Blandford, which has spurred me to highlight this fantastic partnership.
Being a resident in the local area, I felt it would be a great opportunity to use some spare time over my summer holidays, to pro-actively gain valuable work experience, attempt to then decipher and shape which area I’ll move into with my Degree as it can be a minefield for young people.
I have gained valuable insight into the work that goes on ‘behind the scenes’, gaining many transferrable skills such as confident and clear communication with colleagues and clients, as well as being able to provide a customer with a tailored, personal service and an excellent experience.
More importantly I have also been able to pick up on industry-specific skills, whether that be in mortgages or protection insurance; all new knowledge for me, which I can take back to my Economics degree.
Opportunities like these are so important to students and young people like me as it gives us a chance to experience what work in a particular industry could be like, helping us make more informed decisions about our future. It also provides a chance to widen our contact circle and help make new connections, that will be so important in the future and our potential careers, opening doors that otherwise would have never been there for us.
If you feel you could offer myself or my fellow students the opportunity to learn about your business; there is undeniable value for young adults. I truly believe a fresh mind, not yet having been moulded into a specific mindset or way of working in business, might be able to provide fresh insight, innovation and ideas, and I would relish the chance to get to know you and bring value to you and your business also.
I would love to encourage local businesses to support young people, to help shape our futures, open our eyes to business, and present us with career ideas, to really make our future generations thrive, and continue to build businesses for the success of Dorset, and indeed The Dorset Chamber.
For more information on Prosper Protect see www.prosperprotect.co.uk