A University of Bedfordshire graduate in BA (Hons) Public Relations (Sandwich Pathway), Viv believes that getting her position as a Commercial Assistant at Luton Town Football Club was a direct result of her year-long placement.

“I originally began working for Luton Town for my placement year as part of my degree. It was that internship in the Commercial Department that lead to my current role.

During that year I built lots of connections at the football club, not just with the Commercial Team, but other teams around the ground as well businesses in the local area.”

Real-world scenarios played out in the University’s Business Pods have allowed her to jump in at the deep end of her job.

“What stood out for me was the University’s innovative approach to business and practice-based learning.”

She went on to say: “The course teaches you through real life experiences rather than being dictated to from the smart board.

“My Public Relations Practice module helped me improve my approach to different audiences, and the Strategic Management aspect of the course showed me how to analyse situations and work out the best tactical approach.”

These skills have proved essential in the workplace environment and have allowed her to perform her key responsibilities - attracting investment to the club through sponsorship, website advertising, programme advertisements and match sponsorships – effectively and efficiently.

Though arguably the most important element she gained from the course was not on the syllabus.

“There was never any pressure, but through the way the course was structured I was able to build up my self-esteem. Without this, I would struggle in any working environment to be heard, offer assistance or be noticed for good work.”

Though content with her current role, Viv aspires to work in the Premier League.

“Thanks to my time at Beds, I’m now working in the crazy world of football. So whether its the opportunity to meet players from the 70s and 80s who you have heard so much about or seeing a mascot’s face as they come face-to-face with their heroes, it’s priceless.”

“I love my job and working at Luton Town, but my long term career goal is to work as Commercial Director for a Premier League club.

"Working at football club is an atmosphere I ultimately can’t explain, other than it’s like being part of a family unit. Once you’re in, you never want to work anywhere else!"