Where are they now?

“My career ideas have changed drastically from those I had at school and even at university. One key piece of advice I’d offer to current pupils is to be open minded; it doesn’t matter if you want to change direction in your degree or career, you might find yourself enjoying something you never previously considered.”

Niamh was a popular member of the boarding community during her two years at Trent College and took advantage of every opportunity this offered her; making friends across multiple year groups, she participated in fun extra-curricular activities including charity fundraising and continuing her love of hockey, playing both for the Trent College 1st XI and Beeston Hockey Club, all whilst balancing the challenges of A-Level study.

She worked hard and played hard, and it paid off because she earned a place at her university of choice, the University of Leeds, to study her then desired subject of Biochemistry.

“I will forever hold fond memories of my time at Trent. Boarding was a significant part of my experience. I will always cherish my Thursday nights with the Martin girls, watching Netflix and eating that week’s takeaway of choice!”

Niamh attributes her success at A-Levels to the support she received in the boarding community, from friends and staff “Getting to room with Lorna for most of my 2 years was definitely a highlight and without her and the rest of the House, I would not have got through my A-levels”.

“There are so many teachers I am grateful to, who made my two years at Trent unforgettable. A special mention to Miss Charsley for all her support as Assistant House Parent in Martin, I could always rely on her as a good listener. Also, Mr Wood and Mr Randall for their support on and off the hockey pitch.”

When she left Trent College, Niamh moved to Leeds to study a BSc in Biochemistry at the University of Leeds, graduating with First-Class Honours. She then went on to study an MSc in International Business at the University of Nottingham, graduating with a Distinction.

Niamh continued to pursue hockey during these studies, representing the University of Leeds 1st XI in the BUCs [British Universities & Colleges Sport] league. She also played 1st XI for Leeds Hockey Club, at national league level, for 3 years and when she moved back to Nottingham, she played 1st XI and 2nd XI at the University of Nottingham in both the BUCs and Saturday club leagues.

“If you are planning on going to university, I highly recommend joining a society. Whatever it is, there will be something available to join to suit everyone.”

“Hockey was a huge part of my time at Trent and university and will continue to be through my adult life. It has made major transitions I have undergone, so much easier”.

After graduating her International Business MSc, Niamh was successful in securing a commercial graduate role with Lotus Cars, which she started in September 2022, working in the UK Direct Sales team.

“I really love my job. So far, I have been involved in unveiling and touring the new electric SUV, Eletre and I have headed up testing for a sales and marketing platform. I have also been involved in data analysis of social media campaigns”.

Lotus offers multiple different graduate roles including Engineering, Finance, Legal and Commercial. The 2-year graduate programme consists of 2 weeks onboarding and includes factory tours, visits to the various sites and a ‘meet your team’. The graduates then complete 4 months in the department applied for, followed by 6-8 months of rotations of their choosing, before returning to their ‘home department’ for the remainder of the graduate scheme. Graduates also complete a data focussed apprenticeship, which lasts 12 months.

Niamh is currently on a rotation in Finance for the Advanced Performance team who are working on the Lotus electric hypercar, Evija. In April she will start her next rotation, in Purchasing.

“The mentorship and line manager support has been incredible. They are so focussed on ensuring you get what you want out of the graduate scheme and find a role which is suitable to you and your progression.”

“A key highlight for me so far has been when the graduates were invited to Norwich City Football Club in the Lotus Executive Sponsor Box, where we had a 3-course meal and watched the football.”

So, as she looks ahead, we asked Niamh what is she looking forward to next? “The commercial department is moving to London towards the end of this year as part of a global expansion, so it’s a really exciting time to be a part of the team. I’m looking forward to seeing the new ‘Brand Centre’ and the official office opening, which will offer many collaboration and travel opportunities.”