Mattie is almost at the end of Term 1, a term which has been a blend of online teaching and in the College. As we edge closer to the end of this extraordinary term, we thought it might be the right time to find out more about how things are going, how Mattie has adapted to online/blended learning and what he has planned for the future.
Why did you choose to come to OMBS and where did you join us from?
After leaving Gordonstoun in 2018 I worked at a Summer Camp in America followed by working as an au pair in Italy, I then took another gap year returning to work in America and finally finishing my two years of travel with a Ski season in St Anton. Taking this time out really allowed me to think about what I wanted to do in the future. Deep down I knew that I didn’t want to go to university and as soon as I heard of OMBS from a friend of mine who did the course last year and really enjoyed, it I knew this for me. One of the things that attracted me most to the course was that whilst it was only 3 terms, I knew it would hold great value for me when it came to looking for employment. Before I applied, I took time speaking to past students and recruitment agencies, which confirmed that OMBS is a really respected college. It sets you way ahead of your peers and Andrea, our Principal, has incredible contacts.
Unsure of which sector of employment to go into, The Professional Business Diploma has such a wide range of topics, I knew I would gain so much from it – it is also in beautiful Oxford, which helps!
How has your first term been at OMBS?
It has been so great but the course is definitely intense – the 21 hour working week means that my time is full with studying but living in the college house helps keep the balance with fun and learning. My group tutor, Sally is great and is so supportive. There are allotted 1-2-1 drop in clinics that you can book if you need additional support. This course definitely means you must be willing to commit and work hard in order to succeed.
What are your plans for the future?
In PDP (Personal Development Programme) we talk about this a lot and I find it so interesting learning the skills to be analytical about me and my personality. We cover a topic called ‘Future Plans’ in the 1st and 2nd week, and this is where we explore the skills we might need to focus our attentions on making ourselves stand out in a competitive job market. For someone who is creative like me, it is really beneficial to have these conversations and to keep me focused. Going into a job straight out of university often doesn’t give you a strong sense of self or identity.
Is there a business sector you are particularly interested in?
My idea of my career path changes often, however I am swaying towards securing a job as an EA or in Event planning and organising. I love being busy all the time, I love being challenged and I love new experiences. I do not want a job that gives me a working week that is the same. I am confident, which lends itself well to both roles.
But who knows – ask me again in July!
What is it like living in Oxford?
I love Oxford – this was my first time visiting but I have completely fallen in love with the City. Despite the current situation, I will often go out for a walk around the city and each time I look up I’ll see something different. It is so much better than I ever could have imagined. It has been a little bit sad with the lockdown as I have not experienced the Oxford nightlife but there has been lots of fun in the college house.
Do you live in a College House?
Yes I do and it is such a great option to have. I am a 15 minute walk from college, which is based in central Oxford and the area where I live is beautiful. Living in a college house really helps settle you in to college life and it also gives you an independent student lifestyle.
What is your favourite lesson?
It would have to be between PDP and IT because I am really enjoying learning the skills of how to talk to someone and selling yourself, along with Interview preparation which is key to securing a job. IT is great because it really focuses you on your organisation skills, tone of email and formal letter writing. I am also really enjoying learning all the programmes within the office package – a skill which will set me ahead when it comes to job applications.
What it was like in the first week?
We were able to come to college for the first 5 weeks and from the 6th week we went online. However, my first week in college was incredibly exciting, I was a little nervous because I wanted to do my best but also I was aware that I wanted to make lots of new friend’s. This is where living in a college house really helps! I tried to remember that everyone is in the same boat and trying to find the balance. It wasn’t too much of a hurdle as the OMBS staff are amazing at supporting you through the first few weeks with lots of group work and social interactions.
Mattie is taking the one year Professional Business Diploma at Oxford Media & Business School. Find out more about the course here and how it can be a fast track to a great career.