Susan McMillan

Name: Susan McMillan
Club 21 Employer: Pollok Credit Union
Degree Subject: Public Policy
Year of Graduation: 2011

The thing I liked best about Club 21 is that unlike most things at university it is not just about teaching you new things. It is also about using skills you already have even if you never knew you had them. While on placement, I was never told precisely how to do tasks but was encouraged to work in my own way and decide the best way to complete tasks myself. However, I never felt I was left without support as everyone was happy to help me if I felt unsure. As the placement went on and I successfully completed tasks I was given more responsibility, and I felt comfortable that this was offered because my mentor felt I was able, rather than simply throwing me in at the deep end.

The most important thing I learned through the Club 21 placement was not only the practical skills and knowledge of the industry which I picked up, but the importance of believing I could do the tasks required. The majority of the time, when I tried something, I found I was better at it than I had thought I would be. I also learned that what employers are looking for are people with the confidence to take on any task. You cannot gain that simply from getting a good degree; you need experience and that is what a Club 21 placement can give you.