Demi

Why did you choose to do a placement?

I always knew I wanted to pursue a work placement in the sports industry to make my CV stand out in a competitive field. 

My role on placement is Active Wellbeing Co-Ordinator at Surrey Sports Park. I promote health and wellbeing by engaging individuals in physical activities, particularly those living in deprived areas of Guildford or those facing physical, mental or financial barriers to accessing these opportunities. I’ve learnt so much already and I’m looking forward to seeing what I can achieve and how it can inform my final year at Surrey!

What are the best things about placement?

One of the things I love most about my role is that no two days are the same. One day, I might be engaging with postnatal mothers and their babies in a wellness class and the next, delivering a sports session at a youth project. This exposure to diverse audiences not only helps me build hands-on skills but also allows me to learn from experienced, well-established instructors in the field. 

By working across a range of community programmes, I am continually growing, both personally and professionally. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the impact these funded classes have on people, whether it's through smiles or engagement. Attending events and networking with community partners has also presented exciting opportunities for potential collaborations which has greatly boosted my confidence in professional communication, such as conducting meetings and building relationships.

I really enjoy shaping and coordinating projects, including securing venues, instructors and participants for our programmes. It’s been great for developing my leadership skills. And with my qualification in sports massage, I've been able to pursue my interests in this area alongside my main role. 

"My placement has given me a huge advantage in planning and shaping my dissertation project, with ideas and resources I've discovered through my role."

How has your placement informed your career plans?

I've gained invaluable insights into the health and wellbeing sector, which has strongly influenced my career aspirations. While I am still exploring my options, this experience has solidified my interest in pursuing a role within this space. I've seen first-hand the incredible work being done in Guildford, from supporting underserved communities to engaging individuals in physical activity, and it has inspired me to consider how I can expand this impact to other areas across the country. 

This experience has reminded me that helping others has always been my goal and that you don't always have to choose a role in professional sport. 

What advice would you give students considering doing a placement?

Taking advantage of opportunities at university is one of the best ways to boost personal development – you never know where it might lead! Personally, my placement has given me a huge advantage in planning and shaping my dissertation project, with ideas and resources I've discovered through my role.

There are so many opportunities tailored to different interests, and the transferable skills you gain are invaluable, not only for your career but also for your final year of study. Taking this time out to apply and develop my skills in a real-world setting has been the perfect way to enhance my learning experience. It has helped me grow and I feel more prepared to return as a well-rounded sports science student, with a stronger skill set and clearer direction for my future. 

Find out more about our Sport and Exercise Science BSc.