University of DiversiTees

A new mentoring scheme at the University of Teesside, designed to help students learn more about the working world, has proved valuable to a mature student.

Karen Cargill, 37, from Middlesbrough, is on the second year of a BA (Hons) Accountancy and Finance degree. After working for the Post Office and the HSBC as a mortgage advisor, Karen decided she wanted to expand on the few accountancy qualifications she had already earned and enrolled at the University.

While studying, she became aware of the DiversiTees programme – a scheme which places students with a mentor in the workplace to learn from their experiences and get a taste of working life. Deciding that taking part in a mentoring scheme would benefit her after graduation, Karen joined the scheme and was placed with Debbie Hurwood, Head of Taxation and Administration for Stockton Council.

Karen said: “Even though I’ve got a lot of work experience I thought it would stand me in good stead to take part in the DiversiTees scheme. I had the chance to spend time with Debbie and find out about work from a senior manager’s point of view.

“We also updated my CV and I spent time sitting on interview panels which was really helpful. It gave me a great insight into how an employer assesses potential job candidates. It’ll be really useful for when I start sending out my own CV!

“The scheme has really opened my eyes. The opportunities I’ve been given have greatly outweighed any goals that I may have set myself. The general guidance and help I have received have really benefited me. The knowledge and advice that I have gained from Debbie is invaluable and is something that I will carry forward into my career when I complete my degree. The scheme has given me the confidence to believe that I can succeed in my chosen field of finance with the public sector.”

Debbie Hurwood, who is responsible for the collection of council tax and business rates, said: “I saw a flyer from the University asking for people to volunteer to become a mentor. It was something new for me as I’ve been doing this job for a long time now and it gives you the chance to do something outside of the normal day-to-day routine.

“I thought the role would be a new experience and would help me to develop my skills. I welcomed the opportunity to make new acquaintances and take on new challenges. Having worked in a variety of levels and in a number of different roles in Local Government, I felt that I had lots of knowledge, practical experience and contacts to pass on. Having the opportunity to mentor someone on a one-to-one basis has been hugely rewarding. I’ll definitely do it again and I’d encourage other people to get in touch with the University and find out more about the scheme.”

Jane Simpson, University of Teesside Careers Advisor and co-ordinator of the DiversiTees scheme, said: "I think Karen and Debbie's comments really capture what the scheme is all about. Students who participated this year found it an invaluable way to clarify their career ideas and develop confidence in the workplace. For employers it's a great way to build links with the University and give staff the opportunity to develop new skills through mentoring someone outside of their organisation. We're always looking for new employers to join the Scheme so now is a good time to get in touch with us."

To find out more about the DiversiTees scheme, call Jane Simpson on 01642 342262 or email jane.simpson@tees.ac.uk.

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